Proposed Conversion of Town Centre Retail Space Into Flats

Retail space and offices located in Wrexham Town Centre could be converted into self-contained apartments if planning permission is approved. 

In a recent application submitted to Wrexham Council, it has been proposed that 44 to 46 Bridge Street is converted into three, one bedroom apartments. At present the building is used for retail purposes, however the submitted application proposes a change of use to provide ‘new residential dwellings.

The application’s supporting documents continue onto note that there are a ‘number of various properties and uses located on Bridge Street’ – with the traditional street scene consisting of terraced dwellings, shops and also some public houses. There are also several apartments located already above shops in the area.

Overall it is proposed that exterior changes made to the building would be ‘constructed of similar materials’ as the surrounding area. The external walls would have a rendered finish and a continuation of the current street scene would also be ensured.

It is also noted that there will be elevations made to the front of the properties, which will allow for new front doors and windows – which would resemble more of a ‘residential appearance’.

Speaking about the external appearance of the properties, the application’s Design and Access Statement notes: “The appearance of this change of use does not have a detrimental impact on the existing as we believe the changes to the elevations will enhance the outlook of the dwellings.”

The application also proposes that an outbuilding to the rear of the property is demolished, which will allow for a vehicle turning area. Also at the rear of the property the three car parking spaces that already exist on the site will also be retained.

Within the Design and Access Statement it notes: “Within the sites boundary there are adequate parking facilities for occupants. As indicated by the site plans parking is provided to the rear of the site whilst still allowing sufficient amenity space for each dwelling.”

The Design and Access Statement concludes: “We are utilising an existing resource and creating new housing with an existing structure. The current use of the building is no longer viable as a business, so rather than letting the business deteriorate and therefore the building we are seeking to improve localised residential aspects.”

The application to convert the buildings into apartments is one of several Bridge Street / Pen-Y-Bryn applications to be submitted in recent months – with planning approval granted earlier this week for the redevelopment of the Swan Inn.

The application is expected to go before Wrexham’s Planning Committee at a later date…

*Picture – Google Maps