Three residential flats at 36 Oxford Grove, Ilfracombe

“This application seeks detailed planning permission for the conversion of 6 residential studio apartments (bedsits) to provide 3 self-contained residential flats and installation of solar panels on the roof (rear elevation).”

“Secure bin and bike stores are proposed to the rear yard area. Repair and replacements of fenestration is also proposed.”

“The site is currently set out as 6 bedsits over three floors. The property was formerly used as the Salvation Army Hall.”

“The impressive exterior of the building backs on to the pavement of Oxford Grove which runs from Highfield Road to the High Street. There is a Taxi rank on the highway and further parking is controlled during the daytime. To the east of the site is Oxford Grove with residential properties across the road. To the north and south are residential properties. Whilst to the west is a rear yard with a high wall beyond which is associated with the Cinema in the main.”

“Reference Number Proposal Decision Decision Date 29581 CONVERSION OF FORMER SALVATION ARMY HALL TO FORM 4 NO. HOUSES at FORMER SALVATION ARMY HALL, OXFORD GROVE, ILFRACOMBE, EX349HG FULL PLANNING APPROVAL 23 October 2000”

“Whilst it is noted that this is a reduction in units of open market accommodation, this project seeks to convert substandard housing into decent homes for people. The bed sits were in very poor condition and this investment will ensure sustainable homes that meet decent homes standard to support our community.”

“Conclusion Whilst in theory this application will result in a loss of open market accommodation, this proposal will deliver 6 much needed 1 bed units of affordable housing to a decent standard in one of the most deprived parts of the town.”

“In light of the foregoing the overall design is considered to be acceptable preserving the heritage asset.”

“During the construction phase amenity impacts can be controlled by way of a planning condition is planning permission is granted.”

“The Lead Planning Officer (North) reported that since the publication of the report, the new five year housing land supply statement had been published which confirmed that the figure was now 4.61 years, however this did not change the recommendation.”

“The flats were currently unoccupied. The photographs on page 116 showed examples of the existing layout and quality of the bedsits. The size of the existing bedsits were substandard. The proposal was supporting the Healthy Homes project. • The six units of accommodation were located over three floors. • The conversion of the building was not appropriate for Passivhaus standard.”

“RESOLVED (unanimous) that the application be APPROVED as recommended by the Lead Planning Officer (North).”

“The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans/details: 1604 01.01.01PL1 Location Plan received on the 02/09/25 1604 01.01.02PL1 Site Plan Existing - Proposed received on the 02/09/25 1604 01.02.03PL1 Floors Proposed received on the 02/09/25 1604 01.02.04PL1 Elevations Proposed received on the 02/09/25 1604 01.02.05PL1 Sections Existing - Proposed received on the 02/09/25 ('the approved plans').”

“In the event that the solar panels and associated equipment are no longer required, producing electricity or being used, they shall be removed within 3 months of the cessation of electricity generation and the roof affected by the panels, shall be restored to its former condition.”