A PLAN to demolish the post office building in Bracknell town centre to make way for luxury apartments has been approved by the council. 

The post office, in High Street, will be replaced with a seven storey block of flats on top a ground-floor retail space after developer Bradison Real Estate's plans were approved last Thursday. 

Concerns over parking formed most of the planning committee's discussion when they met as the development has a limited number of parking spaces and apartments are set to be marketed as 'car free'. 

The plan was pulled from an earlier committee meeting due to issues with the plans for parking spaces.

Cllr Chris Turrell, executive member for planning, said: "There was a good deal of discussion about the parking and about the concept of a parking free development. I think what we have to take on board is we are moving towards a different set up with the new town centre and we will see taller buildings and there will be more of a pedestrianised development.

"Living car free will suit some people at a certain time in life.

"Councillors were quite concerned that people might take a flat on as car free but then park the car anywhere anyway, but I think as long as people go into it with their eyes fully open then that shouldn't be too much of a problem."

Cllr Turrell also said he would welcome those with more cash to buy property in the town. 
He said: "The sale of luxury flats will be interesting to see how it follows through and if people take them up. Luxury properties are something that can come to Bracknell and are very welcome. How well they sell depends on the detail I think."

The plans were approved despite residents' concerns over the loss of a historic building as the town centre regeneration ramps up. 

Resident Heather Barbar urged councillors to reconsider approving the application before the committee meeting last Thursday and said: "Bracknell Forest Council intend to demolish the Post Office building in the High Street. This building could be used as a town hall or be a civic centre to be proud of - it was built to last to please the eye."

Kevin Ayrton, a member of agent Carter Jonas’ planning team said: "We are really pleased to have secured the planning permission for the redevelopment of the site, which will deliver much-needed housing in a very accessible location. The development will complement the regeneration plans for Bracknell town centre, providing a high quality design, including a prominent High Street retail frontage.

"It isn’t yet known when works will commence."

The Post Office branch will open in the WHSmith in Princess Square on Thursday, November 26 with longer opening hours and a fresh design.

The branch was told it had until the end of the year to find a new premises.