We explained that the building would have benefitted from Class Q permitted development rights to convert the building to a dwelling. We used this ‘fall back’ position to help justify a new dwelling in that location.

Opposite the site was a listed building, so we recommended a heritage consultant who we work with closely. A robust case was presented to the Council, however officers considered the impact on the street scene to be unacceptable.

We disagreed with the decision and advised the client that they stood a good chance of success at appeal. We presented our case to the Planning Inspectorate through a written representations appeal, incorporating relevant evidence and the appeal was allowed.