Bedsits plan for empty offices in Walsall

A proposal has been put forward to Walsall Council planners by developer Yassar Khalil to extend Alexander House in Bradford Street and create eight bedsits at the property.

In the application, it said the offices are currently empty and the bedsits would help provide much needed accommodation for the town.

Alexander House sits in a conservation area but the proposed changes are not believed to have any negative impact on the surrounding location.

In the application, planning agent Anjum Design said: “The building is currently vacant offices.

“We believe the proposal to be in accord with the suggested densities of development for a sustainable future, does not alter the street scene and provides much needed accommodation in the area.

“The property is positioned close to the centre of Walsall, giving convenient access to shops, local facilities and amenities.

“The proposal is for eight bedsits. All bedsits meet the requirements for Walsall Council’s housing standards and have their own bathroom and kitchen facilities.

“To conclude, this proposal will not alter the street scene and has no impact on surrounding properties, providing much needed domestic accommodation in the area.”

In a heritage statement, they added: “The proposed change of use from offices together with ground floor and first floor extensions to create eight bedsits, will not alter the external appearance of this building or its setting.

“As such it will not have any adverse affect on the identified historic assets, namely those aspects of the character of conservation area to which the building presently contributes or the character and setting of the nearest listed buildings, but will in fact improve the appearance and setting.”

The application is currently being considered by Walsall Council planners and a decision is expected next month.