13 residential flats at 219 - 231 High Street, Bangor

What was proposed

The application proposed converting former pub and retail space into 13 flats while retaining ground-floor retail use.

“Proposal: Proposed development for the change of use of the former Waterloo Inn Public House (A3 use) and part of the former WH Smiths & USC units (ancillary A1 use) to form 13 self- contained residential flats (C3 use) along with internal alterations and reconfiguration to combine two existing retail units to provide stalls for retail purposes on the ground floor.”

“Description: This is a full application for the redevelopment of 219-231 High Street, Bangor, which includes the former WH Smiths and USC retail stores as well as the former Waterloo Inn pub, located along neighbouring Waterloo Street, on the lower ground floor. The proposal is to change the use of the lower ground floor (A3 use) and first floor (A1 use) to provide 13 self-contained residential flats (C3 use).”

Officer report

The site

The building is on Bangor High Street within the city centre, main shopping area, sub-regional centre and conservation area.

“While there would be no additions to the building, a row of windows would need to be added to the front elevation with new doors and windows to the rear and changes to the side doors and windows. The building is situated in the middle of Bangor High Street, within the development boundary of the Sub-regional Centre as defined by the Anglesey and Gwynedd Joint Local Development Plan.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Earlier approvals concerned signs and a satellite dish at the property.

“Relevant Planning History: C14/1207/11/HY - Provision of 3 non-illuminated signs : Approved 20/01/15 C07A/0593/11/HY – Erection of fascia sign - Approved 06/09/07 C00A/0445/11/LL - Provision of 0.3 metre (12 inch) satellite dish : Approved 09/10/00”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the development would add housing, meet local demand, retain retail activity and avoid unacceptable impacts.

“The Language Unit was consulted, and it noted that overall, the proposal would have a neutral impact. There is a demand within the city of Bangor for flats such as these as a step within the local housing market, and these units would be available to meet recognised needs within the local community. It is therefore considered, with suitable conditions, that this application meets the requirements of policy PS 1 of the LDP.”

Officer report

What consultees said

consultees raised no transport objection, accepted amended conservation-area designs, and requested conditions covering drainage, sound insulation and construction hours.

“Public Protection: Request conditions to ensure sufficient sound insulation between the shop and flats and to regulate construction working hours…”

“Conservation Officer: Initial concern regarding the design of the proposal and the impact on the conservation area. Following discussions, amendments have been made to the design of the elevations that respect the character of the Conservation area. The Conservation Officer is happy with the new plans.”

Officer report

Public comments

No observations were received from neighbours during the public consultation.

“Public Consultation: A notice was posted on the site and neighbours were notified. No observations were received in response to the public consultation.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent said the proposal would provide needed homes, affordable units, smaller retail space and a positive investment in the city.

The committee vote

The application was proposed and seconded for approval before the committee resolved to approve it with conditions.

“RESOLVED: To approve subject to conditions:”

Minutes