PLANS to turn office space in Whitchurch into two flats have been received by Shropshire Council.

The proposal, for 16-18 Watergate, was validated by planning officers on Monday, November 6 after it was submitted to the council on October 25.

A planning and access statement, prepared for the application by Shrewsbury-based Sean Caddick Architectural on behalf of S Wynn, who is registered at that address.

OTHER NEWS:

The statement said that the application is within the Whitchurch Conservation Area.

It added: “Although not listed, this building is seen as an important part of the town’s history.

“This application proposes the conversion of the existing office to residential with only non-structural minor alterations to modern elements of the building.

“No external changes are proposed.

“Internal changes only to existing offices to provide two single bedroom flats, in keeping with the existing properties in the area.

“The development is located within the centre of Whitchurch with good access to both the bus and train stations.

“Planning policy states that parking need not be provided in town centre developments where good public transport links are available.

“In addition, there are several public car parks a short distance away that will provide for visitors.”

In its conclusion, the statement said: “The proposals have been considered to provide the minimum internal alterations to the existing building, while allowing the conversion of the building.

“ The proposals will have no detrimental effect on the existing building. There is no impact on the street frontage as no external alterations are proposed.

“There is an identified need for residential property on this size within the town.

“Therefore it is respectfully requested that the submitted planning application be approved.”

The statement also highlighted that given the development’s town centre location, it also has excellent pedestrian links.

Get in touch

Share your views on this story by sending a letter to the editor. To get in touch email news@whitchurchherald.co.uk, or fill in the form on this section of our website.

It added that as the application is for a change of use, access to the building and also its drainage will be through established areas and drains, respectively.

Anyone wishing to comment on the application can do so by searching 23/04626/FUL at Shropshire Council’s planning portal.

A decision is expected on the application by the start of 2024 and consultation ends on Tuesday, November 28.