Plans to deliver 126 new homes in Chester city centre have been given the green light, with local councillors citing the decision as "great news" for the area.

Located next to the Shot Tower apartments, around 300 metres south of Chester Railway Station, the apartments will be managed by Clarion Housing Group.

The development forms part of the wider City Place regeneration scheme, which includes more than 46,450 square metres of Grade A office space alongside retail and leisure facilities and around 200 residential units.

Approved under a Section 73 variation, the planning application replaces an earlier design with a single six-storey block. The updated scheme also reduces the number of apartments from 133 to 126.

Construction is expected to begin in March 2026, with completion scheduled for February 2028.

Bounded by the Shropshire Union Canal to the south, the housing will have vehicular access from Charterhall Drive, with a pedestrian bridge linking to the canal towpath and Chester city centre.

Approving the plans, the officer report described the development as respecting local character", and one which "would not harm the setting of nearby heritage assets, and would not result in a significant adverse impact on the amenity of adjacent residents."

Ward councillor Paul Chamberlain welcomed the development, as he said: "This development is a vital addition to central Chester, providing much-needed homes in a highly accessible location.

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"The scheme will support families and working households, and Homes England funding means it can start on site in March 2026."

The development will include a ground-level landscaped courtyard, 61 car parking spaces and a housing mix designed to support family and working households - with 82 percent of apartments being two-bedroom units.

Councillors representing Chester City and the Garden Quarter also expressed their support for the decision.

In a social media post they said: "Absolutely great news that the go-ahead has been given for 126 much-needed affordable homes in Chester city centre.

"Clarion Housing staff have made contact with Cheshire West and Chester Council to thank planning and other officers for being so responsive and flexible with us on City Place in the Chester Station area.

"Your councillors in Chester City and the Garden Quarter are fully behind this bid to provide essential housing for people in our community."

Sitting alongside the Grade II* Shot Tower and other heritage buildings, pedestrian and cycle routes along the canal and soft landscaping around the site's boundaries will enhance accessibility and available public space.

The homes will be delivered by tier-one contractor Galliford Try under a £32.8 million contract.

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You can find the planning application here.