Flats plan rejected over terrorism fears

Plans for a new block of flats have been turned down over fears that terrorists could use them to attack cruise liners and Royal Navy ships.

 

The proposal for the development at North Shields Marina, which is near the Port of Tyne, were rejected after council chiefs heard about the concerns.

 

Andy Khan, head of estates at Port of Tyne, told councillors that the developer’s proposals for windows which are sealed shut would not thwart a terrorist planning an attack from the flat block. 

 

He said: “This scheme would bring increased risk to cruise passengers and navy vessels. Although the windows would be locked I'm sure if a robust terrorist wanted to they could remove the glazing.”

 

Councillors at the meeting were also concerned about the lack of parking at the proposed development, the “bland” design and lack of section 106 money.