Three flats at 50 The Avenue, Southampton

What was proposed

The application proposed converting the existing dwelling into three flats, with two one-bedroom flats, one three-bedroom flat, parking and storage.

“Proposed development: Conversion of existing dwelling to 3 flats (2 x one bed and 1 x three bed) with associated parking and storage.”

Officer report

The site

The site is a detached two-storey Victorian villa, with vehicle access from Clifford Dibben Mews and pedestrian access from The Avenue.

“50 The Avenue is a detached two storey late 19 th century Victorian villa located on the eastern side of The Avenue. Vehicle access is gained from Clifford Dibben Mews to the rear where there is an area of hardstanding. Pedestrian access can be gained from The Avenue to the front.”

“Proposal 2.1 The application proposes the conversion of the existing dwelling into three dwellings. On the ground floor a three bedroomed flat is proposed and on the first floor 2 x 1 bedroomed flats would be created. No extension of the building is proposed. Bin storage would be behind the existing wall at the side of the property. The applicant has provided a plan showing…”

Officer report

Earlier applications

A 2024 prior-approval application for four flats was refused because the property was lawfully a single dwelling.

“All but one planning application was determined prior to 1990. In 2024 an application for…”

Officer report

Living space and parking

The flats met internal space standards, but none had external garden space; officers accepted this because Southampton Common was nearby and the site was sustainable.

“Floor/Flat Floor Size sqm Garden sizes Compliance 1 (3 bed) 118 None Yes – Internal, No - External 2 (1 bed) 39 None Yes – Internal, No - External…”

“The lack of meaningful outdoor amenity space, while regrettable is considered to be acceptable given that the site is located adjacent to Southampton Common and therefore provides opportunity for informal recreation. Given the sustainable location of the site this is acceptable on balance.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two local residents and the applicant addressed the Panel, and statements from the two residents were considered.

What members debated

Members were concerned that the three-bedroom flat relied on a conservatory as its sole living space and sought amended plans for a two-bedroom flat with communal space.

“The presenting officer clarified that the vehicle tracking diagram and proposed widening of the vehicle access would require vehicles to use land outside of the application site (red-outline). It was advised, in conjunction with advice from the Highways Officer, that the site may be able to accommodate either 2 or 3 vehicles and in either case would be acceptable given the sustainable location of the site.”

“During discussion on the item a motion was proposed by Cllr Windle and seconded by Cllr Mrs Blatchford to delegate to the Director of Transport and Planning following concerns by the Panel of reliance on a conservatory as the sole living space to grant planning permission subject to the conditions in the report and subject to: - The submission of amended plans to reduce the ground floor flat to show a 2 bedroomed flat with additional communal space instead of a third…”

Minutes

The vote

The Chair’s counter-proposal was unanimously carried.

“Upon being put to the vote, the Chair’s counter proposal was unanimously carried.”

Minutes