Up to 45 flats at North Block County Hall, Smedley Street, Matlock

What was proposed

The application sought listed building consent for offices to become up to 45 flats, with commercial space, parking, shopfronts, landscaping and related works.

“The application seeks listed building consent in relation to proposals for a change of use from Council offices to up to 45no. flats (Class C3) with car parking, creation of Class E commercial space, new shopfronts, landscaping and associated works. A corresponding application for planning permission…”

Officer report

The site and its setting

County Hall is a prominent Grade II listed building within the Matlock Bank Conservation Area, comprising several connected and additional buildings.

“County Hall is a prominent Grade II listed building, situated on the junction with Smedley Street and Bank Road and forms the heart of the Matlock Bank Conservation Area. Prior to its acquisition by Derbyshire County Council in 1955, the building now known as County Hall was purpose built for, and in use as, Smedley’s Hydropathic Establishment.”

“Matlock Bank Conservation Area is characterised by dramatic topography resulting in expansive views across the Derwent Valley from within the Conservation Area, and long- range views into it from the south side of the valley. The built environment features landmark and high-quality buildings associated with Matlock’s hydropathic industry, whilst residential housing types are generally terraced and semi-detached.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended granting listed building consent subject to conditions, with delegated authority to amend those conditions if necessary.

“To grant listed building consent subject to conditions with delegated authority to the Director of Place and Economy to approve any amendments to those conditions as deemed necessary.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two agents spoke in support of the application, and the Development Management Team Leader presented the proposal and its surroundings.

Members’ consideration

The committee visited the site before the meeting, and members asked no questions.

“The Committee visited the site prior to the meeting to allow Members to appreciate the proposal in the context of its surroundings.”

“Consultation responses were set out in section 5.0 of the report.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee unanimously granted listed building consent subject to conditions, with delegated authority to approve necessary amendments to them.

“It was moved by Councillor Buttle, seconded by Councillor Dobbs and…”

“To grant listed building consent subject to the conditions with delegated authority to the Director of Places and Economy to approve any amendments to those conditions as deemed necessary.”

Minutes