Politicians turn down plans for new marina flats in case terrorists use them to target vessels

Plans to build a block of new flats has been turned down due to concerns over terrorism.

Councillors at North Tyneside Council planning meeting were told terrorists could use flats at the proposed North Shields Marina development, near the Port of Tyne, to launch attacks on cruise liners and Royal Navy ships.

Andy Khan, head of estates at Port of Tyne told councillors that developers proposals for windows which are sealed shut would not thwart a terrorist planning an attack from the flat block.

The Marina at North Shields. Councillors rejected a new development at the Marina over concerns of terrorism, poor design and a lack of car parking spaces

He said: ‘This scheme would bring increased risk to cruise passengers and navy vessels.

‘Although the windows would be locked I’m sure if a robust terrorist wanted to they could remove the glazing.

‘It is necessary to remember that the country is still at risk and the threat level is severe,’ as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Councillors at the meeting were also concerned about the lack of parking at the proposed development, the ‘bland’ design and lack of section 106 money.

Councillor John O’Shea said: ‘I am a bit uncomfortable about this development going forward. 

‘I am concerned that the developer hasn’t complied with the affordable housing requirements. It is essential to the borough and I am concerned that the developer doesn’t want to give a section 106 payment.’

He added: ‘I’m not totally convinced by the parking arrangements proposed.’

The Marina at North Shields. Councillors rejected the proposal for two apartment blocks consisting of 36 flats on the land

The Marina at North Shields. Councillors rejected the proposal for two apartment blocks consisting of 36 flats on the land

A spokesperson for the Port of Tyne said the proposed development ‘has the potential to impact the Port’s growing cruise business, which adds some £51m to the regional economy and supports at least 1,600 jobs.’

They added: ‘In addition, Northumbrian Quay acts as a gateway to the UK for both visiting cruise and naval vessels and as such the port takes any implications for safety seriously.’

Councillors voted unanimously to refuse permission to build the two apartment blocks consisting of 36 flats on the land.

In the papers provided to councillors prior to the meeting, council officers suggested the application be refused.

In the opinion of the council planning officer the ‘design of the development is unacceptable’ and does not ‘make contributions to infrastructure requirements.’  



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