Six student studios at 38 North Hill, Plymouth

What was proposed

A two-storey extension above the commercial unit would provide six additional studio bedrooms for the neighbouring student accommodation.

“Proposal Description This full planning application is for the erection of a two-storey extension above No. North Hill.”

“This is to provide an extension to the purpose built student accommodation at 40-42 North Hill which is currently under construction. The proposed development would provide 6 additional studio bedrooms, split across the two floors.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site is a mid-terraced commercial unit beside student accommodation and a café, in a mixed-use area close to city facilities and public transport.

“Description of Site This application relates to No. North Hill, a mid-terraced, single storey commercial unit, constructed in the mid-19th century. The building is currently in use as a Barbers (Use Class E). No. 40-42 North Hill, immediately north of the site, has recently gained permission for its change of use and conversion to purpose built student accommodation (16 bed). No. 34-36 North Hill, immediately south of the site, is a double fronted café.”

“The surrounding area is mixed-use in character. This includes a range of commercial units along North Hill (offices, shops, cafes, bars and solicitors), student accommodation and residential…”

Officer report

The recommended outcome

Approval was recommended because the extension would accord with the Joint Local Plan, supplementary guidance and national planning policy.

“Conclusions and Reasons for Decision Officers have taken account of the NPPF and S38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and conclude that the proposed extension, which would provide an additional 6 bed spaces to the consented student accommodation at 40-42 North Hill, accords with the Joint Local Plan, Plymouth and South West Devon SPD and the National Planning Policy Framework. The application is therefore recommended for conditional approval.”

“Recommendation In respect of the application dated 25.06.2025 it is recommended to Grant Conditionally.”

Officer report

Consultation and objections

Highways, public protection, flooding and other consultees raised no objections subject to conditions; one letter opposed the effect on North Hill’s atmosphere.

“Consultation Responses Highway Authority- No objection, conditions recommended Public Protection team - No objection, conditions recommended Urban Design - No objection subject to further consideration around design Natural Infrastructure team - No objection subject to conditions University of Plymouth - No comments received Designing out Crime Officer - No objection subject to compliance with the Student Management Plan approved under application 24/00646/FUL Lead Local…”

“Representations One letter of representation was received, objecting to the proposed development on the grounds that building student flats would damage the atmosphere of North Hill.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The planning officer presented the case, the ward councillor spoke, and the applicant’s agent addressed the committee.

The committee vote

Eight councillors voted for the application and two voted against; no councillors abstained, while three were absent or did not vote.

“Absent / Did Not Vote (3) Councillors: Allen, Darcy, and M. Smith.”

Minutes

The final decision

The committee granted the application conditionally, in accordance with the recommended conditions.

“Following discussions, the Committee agreed:”

“To grant the application conditionally, as set out in the report.”

Minutes