Exciting future! (From Penarth Times)

Exciting future!

PLANS have been unveiled to build a £6 million landmark building with a contemporary design on Plymouth Road.

Developers say they have sought to design a building which is in keeping with the town's rich architectural heritage.

Penarth-based developers Insight has made an application to the Vale planning committee to demolish the gm2 building on Plymouth Road and replace it with a residential building containing 26 one and two-bedroomed apartments and ground-floor space for commercial units. A spokesman for Insight said: "The site offers an obvious opportunity to replace a 'modern' characterless building with an exciting example of contemporary architecture.

"This design echoes examples of art deco in Penarth such as the Washington Buildings and sea roads.

"We are satisfied that we have succeeded in designing a building that is sympathetic to its immediate surroundings whilst celebrating the rich architectural heritage of Penarth with its diverse mix of Victorian and 1930s-style properties.

"We have commissioned award-winning architects Holder Mathias plc, who have been responsible for landmark buildings such as NCM in Cardiff Bay and Redrow's highly successful 'Altolusso' scheme. "Throughout the design process Insight have consulted extensively with the Vale of Glamorgan Planning Department as well as the Design Commission for Wales."

He added: "The site's location affords easy access by foot to Penarth's amenities as well as public transport."

Subject to planning permission, work will get under way on the project in six months' time while the estimated completion date is spring 2006. The building's current business tenants 'Sorted' and gm2 will return to the building on its completion.

The size of the units will be 475 and 850 sq ft with one penthouse unit at 1,600 sq ft.

Insight has recently been involved in the redevelopment of Woodland Hall in Penarth.