Planning & Design Practice are pleased to have received planning permission from Derby City Council to convert an office unit into a 7-bedroom House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) (sui generis). We have also received approval to install three roof lights and a new window to the rear elevation.
The site was previously used as office space. The currently underused site offers immense residential potential as it enjoys great transport connections to the rest of the city.
Despite being located in the Friar Gate Conservation Area, having thoroughly assessed the heritage value of the site, PDP came to the conclusion that the building’s under-usage undermines the character of the conservation area. PDP also identified the rising need for housing within Derby, particularly in the city center given the development of the University of Derby Business School adjacent to the site.
The proposal set out to convert the existing building into an HMO, containing 7 rooms, 3 of which have en-suite bathrooms, 2 communal shower rooms and bathrooms, and a communal kitchen. Extra roof lighting is proposed in the first-floor studios to improve living conditions within the HMO, while new window openings are proposed in the communal kitchen to improve ventilation. All in all, the proposal aimed to provide much needed quality housing in the city centre, the most sustainable location for new residences.
Working closely with Derby City Council and the client, PDP has ensured that the proposal is responsive to local and national planning policies with respect to sustainability, local heritage, and housing demand.
We are excited to see the project come to fruition. The team at PDP are always ready to assist you with navigating the complex planning process of converting your own property into other uses. For more information or to discuss your case for free please contact us on 01332 347371 or email enquiries@planningdesign.co.uk