Airbnb plans for former city centre office space

Plans have been lodged to create three Airbnb flats in a Grade II listed Wrexham city centre building.

Wrexham Council’s planning department has received an application to change the use of the upper floors of 33 High Street into self-contained accommodation.

The ground floor of the building is currently subject to a separate planning application to transform that section into a wine bar.

A design and access statement which includes a heritage impact assessment has been submitted with the plans by HDS Architectural Services, outlining the proposals.

It says: “The building to be redeveloped is currently empty, its last use was as an estate agent with additional office space above.

“The change of use involves converting the upper three floors into Airbnb apartments.

“Numerous shops, restaurants and public spaces are within close walking distance with amenities to suit the proposals already existing or being developed nearby.

“The proposed development positively utilises a vacant space within an already established area, making use of a derelict building within the newly granted city.”

The statement adds: “The flats will be self-check-in apartments which will use the existing staircases and fire escapes.

“Each apartment will comprise of an open plan kitchen, living and dining space, double bedroom and en-suite.”

According to the applicants it will not be possible to make the building fully accessible, and the proposed development will be without parking.

The design and access statement says: “As the building is existing and listed it will not always be possible to make the building fully accessible. It will not be possible to install a platform lift for the flats in this instance.

“All the staircases are existing, the banister and handrails are mentioned within the properties listing so will need to be retained in their original state. A new secondary balustrade may need to be installed on the stairs and landing area as the listed one will not meet the current building regulation requirement.

“No parking is provided with the scheme as it is not possible to provide on-site parking. It is noted that the High Street comprises a bus lane, traffic lane and short stay parking. The site is situated in a town centre location close to main facilities and services, and close to good public transport links.”

The building is currently empty, and most recently used as Jones Peckover estate agent office space, and was originally built as a bank. It forms part of Wrexham’s city centre conservation area.

Designated as a Grade II listed building in 1980, the reason given for listing by Cadw is that the building is “a good example of early 20th century commercial architecture, forming part of an important group of commercial buildings.”

The architectural style of the building is based on the ‘Palazzo style’, which refers to a style from the 19th and 20th centuries based upon the palaces of wealthy Italian families of the Italian Renaissance.

The design and access statement adds: “The proposal provides a new use for listed buildings which will help to ensure that they are maintained and preserved for future generations.

“It is considered that the proposals are sympathetic to the setting, will be considered to have a minimal impact on the surroundings and are appropriate in planning terms.”

Wrexham Council planners will make a decision on the proposals at a future date.

By Rory Sheehan – BBC Local Democracy Reporter