Fears flats could collapse if new storeys added

Plans for a two-storey vertical extension are set to be approved for Park Court, Poole

Residents of a block of art deco flats in Poole are objecting to the landlord's attempt to build a two storey extension "above their heads".

More than a dozen people living at Park Court in Westbourne say they fear the building, parts of which have cracks in the brickwork, will collapse on top of them.

They also say a new lift shaft included in the plans, blocks a fire exit - and that the lift would only be for the use of new tenants, NOT those already living on the third floor.

This is the fourth attempt by the owners, West End Investments, to vertically extend the building.

'It's going to collapse on our heads'

Resident Andy Carapiet has concerns about the structural integrity of the building and fire safety under new plans

The most recent application for the same extension was approved by BCP council planners in April 2025, despite over 100 objections from neighbours and residents.

That application however did not include a new lift shaft which residents say would block sunlight and a fire door.

Resident Andy Carapiet says people living there have real concerns about the structural integrity of the building and fire safety: "They want to double the size of this block, with no extra foundations or support.

"There's already cracks in the brickwork. It's going to collapse on our heads. To add to that they're going to block a designated fire exit at the main entrance. How are we supposed to get out in a fire if there's no fire exit?"

A large crack in the wall of a garage at the block, part of an existing internal wall at Park Court

Residents believe the building owner is seeking to exploit a loophole in the law under what's called permitted development.

It was brought in in 2015 under the Conservatives to speed up house building for much needed new homes.

Opponents of the scheme say that it's meant to be aimed at repurposing older dilapidated or derelict buildings, not extending existing housing for landlords to increase their profits.

Local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan has taken up the issue on behalf of constituents: "The council need to have a closer look at this application and how it will impact the existing residents as well as the structural integrity of the building."

The proposed rear extension features a 1.5 square metre lift shaft, not included in the previous application which had been approved

Local ward councillor, Gavin Wright opposes the plans: "We just want the planning officers to have another look, and send it to the planning committee and let them decide how this goes forward".

BCP Council said it wouldn't comment on an ongoing planning application.

A consultation on the plans, including responses from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, BCP waste and recycling, and Highways authorities, ends on August 14th.

West End Investments, which owns the building, has been approached by the BBC for comment.