PLANS to convert the disused office building of the former County Council to new flats have been submitted – but no affordable housing will be provided.
Bucks Council seeks permission for the “change of use, conversion and extension” of the former County Council offices, on Walton Street, in Aylesbury, to provide 46 new flats.
The scheme will consist of 27 one-bed and 18 two-bed flats, and a studio.
PICTURED: A map of the area
READ MORE: Locals ‘not consulted’ over changes to high street bank
There will also be some associated landscaping and 15 off-street parking spaces.
The scheme’s viability has been assessed and “the case has been demonstrated that no affordable housing or other financial contributions can be provided,” according to council documents.
“The scheme cannot afford the provision of any amount of affordable housing, either by way of on-site provision or off-site financial contribution,” it states.
And while it would enable “the acceptable reuse and retention of an existing vacant building which is a non-designated heritage asset”, the proposal would also “result in less than substantial harm” to the asset.
PICTURED: The old county council offices
READ MORE: Demolition plans for stone worktop storage facility on business park
However, the “public benefit of approval outweigh the identified harm”, the report states.
Aylesbury Town Council have objected because the studio flat “would not meet the minimum size regulations”, and because there is no affordable housing.
They also have ‘crime prevention concerns’.
While The Aylesbury Society questioned whether more flats are needed given “the number of empty units on the market in the town centre”.
Two letters from the public express concern about the construction period’s impact on neighbours.
On balance the scheme is deemed “acceptable”, the report states.
It is recommended the application be deferred for approval, subject to ‘appropriate conditions’.
We’ve launched a new Facebook group for local news junkies, politics fans and everyone who wants to keep up to date with the latest issues affecting Aylesbury. Please join the conversation over at Buckinghamshire Politics
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel