Agenda item

The application was for the change of use of first and second floor of building from A2 office use to C3 residential use, and raising of roof to create additional floor to provide a total of 4 studio apartments, 8 one bed apartments and 2 two bed apartments with associated parking. (Additional Information rec'd 05/10/2017 & 23/10/2017). (Amended plans rec'd 23/10/2017). (Amended Plan - Rec'd 02/11/2017.)

Members were advised of the following updates:

‘Affordable housing viability – The applicant submitted a Viability Report which concluded that providing affordable housing would make the development unviable.  The external Viability Consultants have agreed that the scheme does not provide sufficient surplus to be able to fund a contribution in this regard, and as such none will be sought.’

Some Members were disappointed that there would be no contribution made by the applicant and there were a low number of parking spaces available. Officers advised that as the proposal was located in the town centre this would be sustainable.  In addition the County Highways Agency had not raised any objections.

Some Members had concerns regarding the landscaping at the front of the site and officers advised that an informative would be added with regard to softening the exterior of the building with planting.

Resolved that application 17/0701 be approved subject to the conditions as set out in the report of the Executive Head – Regulatory.

Note 1

The recommendation to approve the application was proposed by Councillor Robin Perry and seconded by Councillor Vivienne Chapman.  

Note 2

In accordance with Part 4, Section D, paragraph 18 of the Constitution, the voting in relation to the application was as follows:

Voting in favour of the recommendation to approve the application:

Councillors Nick Chambers, Vivienne Chapman, Colin Dougan, Surinder Gandhum,  Edward Hawkins, Jonathan Lytle, David Mansfield, Max Nelson, Adrian Page, Robin Perry, Ian Sams, Pat Tedder, Victoria Wheeler and Valerie White.