26 flats and extensions at 40 - 60 Queensway Town Centre, Stevenage

“Proposal : Change of use of part of ground floor retail unit (46 Queensway), second floor office units (40-56 Queensway) from Use Class (E) to residential Use Class (C3) to provide 26 flats. Extension of two additional storeys and creation of new bin store and rear access with associated external alterations.”

“B.E.A.M.S (Council’s Heritage Advisor) Stevenage town centre conservation area is on the ‘Heritage at Risk’ register because its condition is poor, its vulnerability is medium, and its trend is deteriorating. The proposal would see the loss of the original Crittall windows which is regrettable, but they are in poor condition so the use of slim profile metal frame windows to match existing design would be acceptable.”

“July 2026: No Objection – the applicant has provided additional information as requested and we are now able to remove our objection. We would recommend a condition is imposed for a flood emergency plan to be submitted prior to occupation to ensure safe access and egress can be achieved. Herts Fire and Rescue Service Water Officer No objections or concerns raised but require a condition for the provision and installation of fire hydrants at no cost to the County Council.”

“99/00284/AD Internally Illuminated Fascia and Under Canopy Sign 03.09.1999 ADGRAN 3. THE CURRENT APPLICATION 3.1 This application seeks planning permission for the change of use of part of the ground floor retail unit at 46 Queensway and the second floor office units at 40 to 56 Queensway from Use Class E to Use Class C3 (residential), and the erection of two additional residential storeys, to provide a total of 26 flats; together with the creation of a new bin store…”

“A summary of the comments received are set out below: • Please consider securing swift bricks; • Cycling is affected by traffic orders in the area which need to be updated; • Cycle storage details are required per Manual for Streets.”

“During questions, Members sought clarification regarding the shortfall in cycle parking provision and were advised that site constraints prevented additional spaces without reducing active retail floorspace, with the deficiency to be mitigated through a financial contribution towards the cycle hire scheme operating in Stevenage.”

“Members also discussed the wider regeneration benefits, the potential for neighbouring property owners to undertake similar improvements, the provision of swift bricks secured by condition, and the consistency of the design approach with other approved redevelopment schemes in Queensway. Following the questions, a motion to proceed to the debate and vote was proposed and seconded.”

“A vote was taken and It was RESOLVED that planning permission be GRANTED subject to the conditions set out below and delegated authority be given to the Director of Planning and Regulation in consultation with the Chair of the Planning and Development Committee, to amend or add to the conditions subject to which the permission would be granted, where such amendments or additions would satisfy the relevant national policy tests and would most effectively deliver the…”