Two shops and flats at 758 - 760 Atherton Road, Hindley Green, Wigan

“Planning permission is sought to sub-divide the existing vacant Planning Use Class E unit at ground floor into two separate Class E units, with associated alterations including two new shopfronts with separate entrance doors. In addition, it is proposed to convert the first floor of the building into 2 no. one-bedroomed flats.”

“New window and door openings are proposed to the rear, including a door to provide separate access to the two proposed flats. The existing rear courtyard would be retained to provide a shared space serving the Class E units and the flats.”

“The application site relates to a double-fronted two-storey property located on the A577 Atherton Road. Officers understand that the property has been vacant for some time but was last in use as a pharmacy with associated storage on the first floor. The site adjoins a row of terraced housing to the west, and the neighbouring property to the east is a Fish and Chip shop. The property has an outdoor amenity area to the rear.”

“There is a small open yard area to the rear of the property that can be accessed from Atherton Road via a narrow alleyway to the side of the building. The alleyway also provides rear access to a number of terraced houses to the east, as well as the neighbouring Fish and Chip shop.”

“The proposals will enable the productive re-use of an existing vacant building, contributing in part to Wigan’s housing supply and economy. The detailed assessment confirms that the development is acceptable in respect of highway safety, parking and accessibility; provides an appropriate design response within the surrounding street scene; and does not result in unacceptable impacts on the amenity of neighbouring residential or commercial occupiers, or future occupants of…”

“Whilst the concerns of Ward Councillors are acknowledged and have been carefully considered, no matters have been identified that would outweigh the proposal’s compliance with the Development Plan and its overall merits. Taking this, and all material considerations into account, the proposed development is therefore considered to represent sustainable development in accordance with the NPPF.”

“The 2024 Housing Needs Assessment (HNA) indicates that Hindley & Abram has a limited need for one-bedroom apartments. Despite the lesser need, the PfE states that smaller households are forecast to account for over half the growth in households, therefore it is anticipated that the demand for apartments will increase, this scheme is therefore supported.”

“All proposed developments should be built to specification as set out in the Government’s Nationally Described Space Standards (NDSS), where possible. The recently adopted PfE for Greater Manchester requires all homes to meet the NDSS standards. Both flats exceed the space standards for one occupant at 41 square meters (sqm) and 50sqm. The larger flat 2 at 50sqm would be a suitable size for two occupants.”

“One public representation in support of the application has been received. This representation states that the proposed conversion to flats is more favourable than a HMO and should be encouraged.”

“Councillors Palmer and Brierley have also submitted representations with regard to the application. Whilst not stating an objection, both Councillors have requested that the application be considered by Planning Committee and have raised concerns regarding potential parking and highway impacts. Councillor Brierley has also raised concerns relating to the proximity of the proposed Planning Use Class E Units to other existing similar nearby businesses.”

“The development hereby approved must be begun not later than the expiration of three years beginning with the date of this permission. 2. The development hereby approved shall be carried out in accordance with the following numbered and titled plans and drawings: -2026-758-760-002 Proposed Plans and Elevations; and -2026-758-760-003 Site and Location Plan. 3.”

“The ground floor Planning Use Class E units hereby permitted shall only be open for trade or business during the following hours: - 07:00 to 20:00, Monday to Saturday; and - 09:00 to 16:00, Sundays and Bank Holidays. 6.”