Plans to turn former town centre office space into over 20 flats set for approval

Plans to convert former town centre office space into accomodation could be approved next week despite concerns that some of the flats are “inadequate in terms of size and quality.”

The application to turn the second and third floors of 39 to 41 High Street into flats is set to be debated by councillors on Monday afternoon.

Permission had initially been sought for 23 residential units, but the plans have since been revised to 21.

No parking is proposed for the redevelopment, with the applicants stating that the “site comprises the building with little external outside space.”

Earlier this year applications Cadnant Planning said the plans will “assist in providing accommodation for those who can either not afford larger and more expensive accommodation, as many are priced out of the current market.”

But members of the Offa Community Council have objected to the application amid concerns that some of the units are “still inadequate in terms of size and quality”.

As part of the objection, the community council adds: “The small room allocated for bin and recycling storage is totally inadequate to house the sizes of refuse collection containers, together with the numbers of various recycling bins that would be needed to cater for 21 apartments.

“It is also situated directly adjacent to the staircase potentially creating a fire risk.

“There are concerns whether the drainage capacity for the communal drains will be able to cope with the considerable extra demand.”

However the plans have been recommended for approval by the council’s chief planning officer, Lawrence Isted, who states that the “proposal represents a sustainable alternative use for a vacant listed building in the Conservation Area and is acceptable under the terms of adopted policies and guidance.”

Addressing the concerns about the size of the accommodation and bin storage, Mr Isted continues notes: “In terms of the amount of development, the greater the number of units proposed, the greater the pressure on the listed building from the introduction of services.

“The interior of the building has already experienced a considerable amount of change. The reduction to 21 units has helped in this regard.

“The units will have limited amenity space but this is considered to be acceptable for town centre living. Sound proofing is proposed between units and adjoining buildings and this would be a condition of any permission.

“Whilst there are genuine concerns over waste storage and collection in the area, it is considered that they would not be sufficient reason to refuse the application. Compliance with waste management plan and supporting details can be made a condition of any permission.”

The application will be considered by planning committee members on Monday 2 November.

Picture: Planning document