Fast-track flats plan for Willenhall Library office rejected

Architecttura Design submitted an application to Walsall Council planners seeking ‘prior approval’ for the proposal for the offices on Bow Street to be turned into up to four apartments.

But planners refused and said the company would have to submit a full planning application so that they can assess highways issues that could arise as a result of the development.

The Government introduced ‘prior approval’ as a way to enable people to convert offices into housing without having to go through the full planning application process.

In their application, Architecttura Design said: “It will be apparent that the site is situated in a very sustainable location which would be self-supporting in terms of being able to provide off-street parking for residents within a short distance.

“The location of the site would also afford easy access to the wide range of public transport opportunities that are also available.

“As it will be appreciated, the established use of the building for office use has the potential to generate substantial traffic movements to and from the site during the normal working week than residential.

“Whilst no scheme has yet been prepared for how the building might be converted to accommodate dwellings, it is considered that it may be possible to provide three or four one or two bedroom apartments within the building.”

But planning officer Devinder Matharu said: “A full application is required to fully assess the proposal to convert the premises from office into residential on highway safety grounds.

“Due to neighbouring industrial uses and banqueting facilities in close proximity to the site it is uncertain that adequate mitigation can be undertaken to ensure future occupants will be provided with a satisfactory acoustic environment.”

He added a flood risk assessment would also have to be submitted within the full application.