Difficulties Letting Retail Space Leads to Proposed Partial Conversion Into Flats

Difficulties in ‘selling or letting’ a large retail space in Wrexham Town Centre has led to proposals to partially convert property into flats.

In an application submitted to Wrexham Council it has been proposed that the rear retail space of 15 Charles Street is converted into three, one bedroom flats.

The store had previously been occupied by Daniels Furniture Store, however if the application is approved the rear of the retail space would be converted into accommodation – offering a smaller retail space for any future traders.

The building itself is three storey with the second level previously being converted into flats.

At present the entrance to the second floor flats is accessed from a separate communal hallway which can be accessed via Charles Street. However details within the new application state that this entrance will be utilised for the new flats, but a metal stairway will also be introduced to the rear elevation.

Minimal changes will be made to the frontage of the building – internally will see the introduction of a new doorway to access the flats and also the installation of new combi-boilers to provide heating.

The reason behind the proposed reduction in retail space has been put down to issues selling and letting the property in the current retail market.

Details within the Design and Access Statement note: “The current retail unit location and size does not lend itself to the current retail market.

“A large retail space of this size within the town centre is very difficult to let or sell as many businesses that require a unit of this size, would opt for out of town units that provide parking facilities.

“It is therefore felt that the retention of the front section of the unit as retail upholds the character of the main frontage onto Charles Street, while making the best use of the available space within the building, to provide much needed affordable apartments near to the town centre.”

The planning application is expected to be debated by Wrexham Council’s Planning Committee at a later date.