Bedsit plans for former town centre “adult shop” rejected

An application to convert a former town centre adult shop into bedsits has been described as “unacceptable”.

The plans for the ‘Private Shop’ on Yorke Street had been submitted to Wrexham Council for approval over the summer.

It had been proposed that the ‘redundant’ first and second floors were converted into four self contained bedsits – each with a living room, kitchen and bathroom.

However a delegated decision taken by the council’s Head of Environment and Planning, Lawrence Isted has seen the plans refused.

Explaining his decision, Mr Isted states: “The application is unacceptable and I recommend refusal on the basis of the detrimental impact of the works upon the character and appearance of the conservation area.

“The application provides insufficient information with regards to bin storage, secure cycle provision, lack of unacceptable amenity space and securing the safety of use of the rear area of the building including security lighting.

“The proposals as such would be detrimental to the character of the conservation area and the amenities of any future occupants and contrary to UDP policies GDP1, PS2 and EC7.”

It is the second time plans have been submitted for the site, with an application to convert the building into a 14 bedroom HMO lodged with Wrexham Council in 2017.

However after Wrexham Council failed to make a decision on the proposals within the necessary timescale, it was refused on appeal by the Planning Inspectorate in February because of concerns over a lack of space for residents.