Berkshire House and Islamic centre on planning agenda

'A once in a generation opportunity' would be missed if plans to transform Berkshire House were rejected by councillors, it has been claimed.

Plans were submitted in September proposing to transform the derelict block in High Street, Maidenhead, into 68 homes with a modern exterior look.

They are set to go before a development control panel on Wednesday.

But the proposals have been recommended for refusal by officers as the design and materials 'are not of an exceptional quality'.

Developer Essential Living has told the Royal Borough that if plans are rejected, it will use new rights to convert the inside of the building into flats and keep the outside appearance the same – which would not need approval.

In a letter to the council, chief operating officer Martin Bellinger warned that rejecting the original proposal would be missing 'a once in a generation opportunity' to transform a building that is 'widely seen as the ugliest building in Maidenhead.'

Councillors will also make a decision on Wednesday about Maidenhead Islamic Trust's plans to create an improved community facility in Holmanleaze.

The proposals include the development of a three-storey community hall and mortuary which will also house a number of multifunctional teaching rooms.

Officers have said the development will 'improve the character of the area' and have recommended the plans for approval.

Other plans due to be discussed include:

• The refurbishment of the Thames Riviera hotel in Bridge Road to create 12 additional guest rooms.
• The construction of a livestock building at Winter Hill Farm in Winter Hill, Cookham.
• Plans to build seven houses following the demolition of commercial buildings and houses in Warren Row Road, Warren Row.

The meeting will take place at Maidenhead Town Hall in St Ives Road from 7pm.