Plans to build 163 new homes on the site of two former multi-storey blocks in the Hilltown have been approved despite one councillor’s fears the building could look drab.
Hillcrest Housing Association intends to build 40 houses and 123 flats where Bucklemaker and Butterburn Courts used to stand until their demolition in 2013.
Dundee City Council is to own and manage 83 of the units.
The development will be split into two housing areas, separated by a pedestrian thoroughfare.
Comprising five detached houses and 35 terraced houses, the development would also feature 12 two-storey flats, 93 flats and 18 supported-living flats.
The development received a number of objections, with most concerns relating to the height of the six-storey blocks on the corners of the 3.5 hectare site.
These concerns were echoed by several councillors when the development management committee met this week.
West End councillor Fraser Macpherson said: “My gut reaction is this is a positive development but the letters of objection seem to be about the four corners.”
Architect Catherine Houston, from Collective Architects, said the development would be in keeping with other buildings in the Hilltown.
She said: “It is quite an interesting area with a lot of different types of buildings so it does sit sympathetically in context.”
SNP Coldside councillor Jimmy Black had concerns about the materials used on the building, which Ms Houston said would blend in with the sandstone, granite and slate used in many Hiltown properties.
Mr Black, who said the council had “joyously demolished” the multis that had stood on the site in 2013, added: “I’m very keen these flats should be an enhancement.”
Dundee City Council director of city planning Mike Galloway said different colours of brick would be used to give the development an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
He said: “It’s not going to be a harlequin cake but there will be some shading.”
The committee approved the plans unanimously.
Afterwards, David Zwirlein, Hillcrest’s director of development, said: “It’s exciting to be part of the transformation for Dundee’s Hilltown so we are delighted that this project has been given the green light.
“Not only will the homes be good quality and affordable, they will be energy efficient and meet a range of housing needs. A mixture of flats and houses as well as social and mid-market rent means that we will deliver a development which addresses the shortage of affordable rented housing in the city.”
Stewart Shearer, managing director of Robertson Partnership Homes, said: “The Derby Street development will provide a significant boost for the area in providing much-needed affordable housing that is fit for the needs of the community.
“The decision to approve the development will be fantastic news for those awaiting housing and we are looking forward to bringing forward this important development.”
Robertson Partnership Homes development director Joanne Walker added: “The provision of 163 additional affordable housing units will be a welcome addition for the community and today’s decision is a terrific boost for the whole area.”
