Warwick District Council’s Cabinet meet on 8 July to consider the development brief and confirm the public consultation programme, set to run over this summer.

A new Leamington Spa Neighbourhood Plan; a commitment to address the Climate Emergency and an ambition to enhance public access to the river are all considerations that are shaping a fresh approach to this important site.

Planning permission for housing, which was granted in 2018 has now lapsed.  In preparing the draft brief the Council’s project team has set a high bar for any future developer, which the public will have an opportunity to consider and respond with comments and suggestions.

The Leader of Warwick District Council, Councillor Andrew Day commented:

“New thinking, driven by our response to the Climate Emergency and a recognition that the pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we work, means that this key site can come forward for a changed purpose.” 

“Riverside House has been virtually empty for more than a year, with the majority of our staff working remotely. The building will not enable us to meet our climate change goals and is an increasing burden on Council Tax payers. The relocation of our office accommodation would be considered separately at a future date and is no longer related or connected with the redevelopment of the Covent Garden car park site.”  

“We’re keen to create the maximum public benefit possible from this regeneration opportunity.  In drawing-up plans for the future of the Riverside House site, we want to ensure that we maintain a strong and cooperative dialogue with all interested parties.”

“Should the Cabinet approve the development brief we’ll promptly engage the Town Council, the Leamington Society, the Chamber of Trade, other local community groups and neighbours. Working together, our ambition is to bring new plans forward by the end of the year, which express a shared vision for this beautiful location.”