Mixed-use building conversion at Ilfracombe Delivery Office, Ilfracombe

What was proposed

The application proposed converting the building into eight flats, retail and exhibition spaces, with refurbishment, solar panels and other external works.

“This application seeks detailed planning permission for the conversion of the building to provide for a commercial space on the ground floors and eight flats on the first floor and above in place of four existing flats:-”

“Commercial/Community (Lower Floors) works proposed: • Conversion of the ground floor into flexible shop and exhibition spaces with provision for servery with seating to provide light refreshments.”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The vacant five-storey former Royal Mail building is in the High Street, within the conservation area, and has local historic interest.

“The existing building, formerly in use by the Royal Mail, includes five storeys which were used as follows: • Lower Ground Floor: Former storage space • Ground Floor: Former post sorting office area and Post Office counter • First Floor: Previously social club area • Second & Third Floors: Existing residential flats…”

“Constructed in 1910, the building reflects the robust and functional civic architecture typical of its time with generous internal volumes, and a rational facade layout. Major features to the facade include Dutch Gables which are a prominent addition to many buildings on the High Street and contribute towards the local character.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the proposal acceptable in principle, design, heritage, amenity, ecology, drainage and highway terms, subject to conditions and an agreement.

“In light of the foregoing the overall design is considered to be acceptable preserving the heritage asset and ensuring it remains in a viable use.”

“In summary, biodiversity and impact on ecology is considered to be acceptable and in accordance with the necessary provisions subject to the imposition of appropriate planning conditions.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The highways authority had no objections, the town council supported the scheme, and heritage officers supported conserving the building and improving the High Street.

“The closest proposed residential accommodation would adjoin 36 High Street well above the floor level of first floor rooms at 36 High Street (due to much higher room heights at the application building). Additionally, first floor plans show all proposed bedrooms being physically separated from 36 High Street by bathrooms and living rooms.”

“Heritage & Conservation Officer Reply Received: 21/11/2025 The former Ilfracombe Post Office is a very characterful historic building that sits on the northern side of the High Street, in a prominent position within the Ilfracombe Conservation Area. The northern side is clearly visible from the Fortescue Road area.”

Officer report

Comments from others

One representation sought protection against construction traffic obstruction, while others supported the homes and suggested a museum use.

“Representation has been received seeking confirmation that the construction phase of the development will not result in traffic obstruction.”

“Comments have also been received supporting the scheme in terms of both the residential accommodation and suggesting that the building would also make a great new home for the Ilfracombe museum.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A ward member addressed the committee in support of the application.

Committee questions

Members asked about construction conditions, public open space contributions, refuse storage, the former social club and the section 106 policy.

“Conditions 5 and 6 were recommended in relation to the timings and traffic management whilst works were being undertaken during the construction phase.”

“Unless the applicant advised that the scheme was not viable, Section 106 contributions would be sought in terms of an off site contribution for public open space. No contributions for affordable housing or education were required due to the limited net increase of the residential properties at the site. • Storage of refuse would be provided on the lower ground floor. • The previous area which had been used for a social club would be used for flats.”

Minutes

The vote

The committee unanimously approved the application as recommended by the Lead Planning Officer.

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

Minutes

Main conditions

Conditions covered approved plans, materials, permitted ground-floor uses, construction management, solar panels, biodiversity, refuse storage and cycle storage.

“The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans/details: 1604.01.01PL1 Location Plan received on the 22/10/25 1604.01.02PL2 Site Plan Existing And Proposed received on the 19/11/25 1604.02.03PL1 Lower Ground And Ground Floor Plans As Proposed received on the 22/10/25 1604.02.04PL1 First, Second And Third Floor Plans As Proposed received on the 22/10/25 1604.02.05PL2 Roof Plans Existing And Proposed received on the…”

“Prior to the first occupation of the residential accommodation hereby approved the refuse and cycle storage facilities shown on the approved plans shall be provided in full and retained for those purposes thereafter.”

Officer report