Five flats approved for former Stafford pub site

The Albion, which was located on the corner of Marston Road and Albert Terrace, was demolished several years ago.

Plans for a three-storey block of six apartments were refused permission by Stafford Borough Council in 2017. But the latest application for the site, which sought permission for a two-and-a-half storey development of five apartments, was approved by planning officers this month.

The officers’ report said: “Following concerns being raised relating to the adverse impacts the proposed building would exert on the character of the surrounding area the applicant has amended the scheme. In its amended form, the siting of the proposed building is considered to be acceptable.

“The building would complement the established pattern of development along both Marston Road and Peel Terrace, albeit leaving an uncharacteristic gap between itself and 3 Peel Terrace. However, this gap would allow for parking provision and bin storage areas and for the building to appropriately address Marston Road.

“The initial scheme involved a one way route through the site from Peel Terrace to the access road to Marston Road Trading Park, to which the highway authority raised concern relating to access rights and visibility.

“Following amendments to the scheme it now comprises a singular gated access point onto Peel Terrace which would lead to a parking area providing for seven vehicles.”

A design and access statement submitted as part of the latest application said: “The building has been designed to be an attractive and sympathetic addition to the street scene on both Marston Road and Peel Terrace.

“Care has been taken to ensure that the roof line works with the surrounding buildings, showing that where it continues on Marston Road it is similar to the neighbouring terraced housing to its side. On Peel Terrace the roofline is the same as its neighbour, to be in scale and in keeping with the surrounding properties.”