Six flats and commercial space at National Westminster Bank, Ramsgate

What was proposed

The application proposed six flats in the former bank while retaining commercial use on part of the ground floor.

“LOCATION: Change of Use of existing bank (use class E(c)) to 1no 3 bed flat, 1no 2bed flat and 4no 1bed flats (Use Class C3) together with retention of commercial use (Class E) on part of ground floor…”

Officer report

The site and building

The three-storey former bank stands at the corner of High Street and Hardres Street in the Ramsgate Conservation Area and is Grade II listed.

“The property is a three storey building previously occupied by Nat West Bank and is located on the corner of High Street and Hardres Street. The property is located within the Ramsgate Conservation Area and is a Grade II Listed Building. The site is located within the Primary Shopping Area of Ramsgate and is currently unoccupied.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Earlier applications concerned signs, an ATM, listed building works and security bars, while listed building consent for the conversion was under consideration.

“F/TH/24/1493 - Currently under considered – Delegated authority Application for Listed Building Consent for internal and external alterations to facilitate conversion to flats…”

“L/TH/24/0481 GTD Application for listed building consent for the removal of 1no. ATM and infill with glazing to match adjacent windows together with making good fixture holes following removal of signage…”

Officer report

Objections and concerns

A heritage forum wanted the retail function retained and objected to the basement bedroom and proposed arrangement, while supporting residential use in principle.

“Neighbours have been notified, a site notice posted and an advert placed in the newspaper. One representation has been received from the Ramsgate Heritage and Design Forum making the following comments:”

“-The Forum felt strongly that the retail function needs to be retained on the ground floor. - Also there is no reference in the documentation to the Conservation Area Appraisal or Character Area Number 2, Historic Commercial Core. -The basement bedroom is not acceptable. -We support the residential use of the building but object to the current proposed arrangement…”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker spoke in favour of the application.

Committee consideration

The principal planning officer outlined the report, and the chair proposed approval with the listed conditions, seconded by the vice chair.

“The Principal Planning Officer outlined the report.”

“The Chair proposed and Vice Chair seconded that the application be approved, subject to the following conditions:”

Minutes

The vote

The motion to approve the application was agreed.

“When put to the vote, the motion was AGREED.”

Minutes