Flats plan for offices above Walsall town centre shop rejected
A proposal to convert offices above Walsall town centre shops into new apartments have been thrown out by planners.
Applicants HGSJ Properties Ltd applied for approval to convert the offices above Simply Clintons, in Park Street.
But Walsall Council planning bosses said no flood risk or noise impact assessments had been submitted for the proposed four two-bedroom apartments and therefore refused permission.
HGSJ had said a flood risk assessment report would follow the application which had been submitted.
It said: “The existing building has excellent transport links and is within three minutes walking distance to a bus station and train station.
“The proposal will not increase the potential contamination risks as there are already foul waste drainage systems in the existing building, of which the proposed dwellings will connect to.”
But Chris Berry, interim head of planning, said: “The application site is within Flood Zone 2 and no site specific flood risk assessment has been included with the prior approval to demonstrate there would no detrimental impact on future occupiers.
“Due to the location of the site above a commercial premises and fronting a busy High Street, the Local Planning Authority need to assess the impact residential units would have on the existing nearby commercial premises.
“Without an acoustic survey / noise impact assessment it is impossible to determine this impact.”
He added: “The carrying out of such works without express planning permission will be unlawful and the council may take enforcement steps if development is commenced without first seeking planning permission for the proposals.”
But he did say that the company can reapply for prior approval including the further required information to enable planners to assess the proposal.
