Exceptional consideration for new Class B1 office development

Exceptionally where there is a definite rather than a speculative proposal for a new Class B1 office development which would make a substantial contribution to the economy of a particular town and no suitable site exists within the existing town centre, a business park or other area identified in a development plan as suitable for such development, consideration may be given to an alternative site within the urban area. A location on the periphery of the existing central area must be considered first, as the Department considers that such a location will have the least detrimental impact on town centre business functions. For any site to be found acceptable it will need to be compatible with existing land uses in the immediate area and meet normal planning and environmental standards.