Councillors defer decision on Hope Street flats plan
A decision on whether to approve controversial plans for student flats in Liverpool's Hope Street has been deferred.
Maghull Developments plans to redevelop the corner of Hope Street and Myrtle Street, creating rooms for more than 350 students in two L-shaped blocks.
Local residents and businesses have objected to the plans, saying they are out of keeping with the street.
The decision has been deferred to allow planners to visit the site next week.
The proposal had been recommended for approval at the meeting on Tuesday morning.
If approved, the student flats will be built in blocks of up to 10 storeys on the site of the now demolished Josephine Butler House.
It is opposite the Philharmonic Dining Rooms pub and between the city's two cathedrals.
Maghull Developments, in partnership with Student Castle Ltd, proposes to build the 368 student bedrooms within 22 apartments and 217 self-contained studio flats.
It is also planning to build communal student facilities, shops and a gym on the site.
Those who have complained include councillors Nick Small, Sharon Sullivan and Christine Banks, who said the location of students flats could create anti-social behaviour and noise for those already living near the site.
They also said the design of the building is not of a high enough quality for such an important part of the city.
The Rodney Street Association called it a "monstrous" development "more in-keeping with post-war Bucharest or Minsk rather than with Liverpool's Hope Street."
Maghull Developments has already amended its original blueprint following advice from planning officers and consultation with English Heritage.