Ground-floor alterations at Council Offices, London Road, Saffron Walden

What was proposed

The application sought to vary approved plans for ground-floor alterations, including changes to doors, a lobby, the reception area and internal passage.

“The applicant seeks planning permission under Section 73 to vary condition 2 (approved plans) of application UTT/25/1957/FUL (Proposed alterations to ground floor (part) including addition of air conditioning units to external wall) - amendments to approved plans in line with recommendations made by a building control officer.”

“Slight alteration of the position of the new entrance door. • Creation of a new lobby area with a new door • Relocation of Door 2 to lobby • Insertion of a new door/passage between Quiet Pod and Hub • Alteration / conversion of the reception area from enclosed to open plan…”

Officer report

The site

The site is the modern part of a Grade II listed former hospital used as council offices, within a conservation area.

“The application site comprises the modern part multistorey Grade II listed building (since 1987) the former Saffron Walden Hospital, currently serving as the Council Offices for Uttlesford District Council, located within development limits in Saffron Walden.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Earlier applications included internal alterations and window replacements, while the related 2025 applications were approved with conditions.

“The site has a track record of planning history dating back to 1954, the most recent and relevant planning history listed below: Reference Proposal Decision UTT/15/1722/LB Cut out internal doorway in emergency centre wall, remove internal dividing wall and build new wall creating a larger office area. Approved with conditions (30.07.2015) UTT/15/2413/LB Replacement of top floor galvanised window units.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended approval because the amendments were minor, complied with policies and would not harm heritage, the area or neighbouring amenities.

“It is demonstrated within this report that the proposals are considered as minor amendments in respect to their design and appearance and that they would not result in significant changes to the previous approved plans under planning ref: UTT/25/1957/FUL and neither would they result in harm to the character of the building or the amenities enjoyed by adjoining users neither would it be harmful to the significance and setting of the character of the area.”

“The proposals have been assessed against the relevant current and emerging policies contained within the Development Plan and the NPPF. It has been concluded that they comply and in accordance with these policies and guidance. In conclusion, it has been found that the proposals are appropriate and acceptable and thus are recommended for approval subject to conditions.”

Officer report

Public representations

Site notices, letters and a newspaper notice were used, but no representations were received.

“A site notice was displayed on site and notification letters were sent out to nearby properties. The application has also been the subject of press a press notice in the local newspaper and no representations have been received.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The District Wide Team Leader presented the application and recommended approval subject to the report’s conditions.

Committee discussion

There were no questions or debate on the application.

“There were no questions or debate on the application.”

Minutes

The vote

Councillor Feeman proposed approval, and Councillor Sutton seconded the proposal.

“Councillor Feeman proposed approval of the application, and this was seconded by Councillor Sutton.”

Minutes

The decision

The committee authorised the Strategic Director of Planning to grant permission subject to the conditions in section 17.

“RESOLVED that the Strategic Director of Planning be authorised to grant permission for the development subject to the conditions set out in section 17 of the report- A) Conditions…”

Minutes