We are delighted with our recent planning approval for a change of use from a shop to a new cycle retail and training facility.
The cycle company engaged us early on in their project to help them set up the first in an anticipated string of new cycle training clubs with retail space. They were keen to provide their members and the wider community with a safe and accessible environment to train, especially during the cold winter months, using custom-designed road bikes which have been modified for stationary indoor use.
Understanding the client requirements and creating a bespoke planning statement to help get their business project off the ground
After a thorough site appraisal and review of local planning precedents enabled us to formulate an effective planning strategy, we prepared and submitted a comprehensive planning statement that showcased our client’s new concept in cycle training facilities, as well as addressing the key material planning issues associated with the change of use.
Balancing local resident needs with a new business venture
One of the many challenges in preparing a strong change of use application is trying to justify the loss of one use in favour of another. Furthermore, any potential impact to the local area from the change of use application needs to be analysed and negotiated, for example: shifts in opening hours and footfall; noise levels; transport and parking requirements.
Our research and consultation with Wandsworth Council planning department during the application process meant that any queries from the council and local residents were swiftly discussed and solutions found. As this particular application was to enable a new business concept, we used our planning experience to anticipate the necessary requirements and justify how the scheme met both local and national policy criteria, ensuring we made the most robust application for our client’s proposal.
We were delighted that the London Borough of Wandsworth agreed with our key arguments and that the planning permission was granted. The change of use will introduce a business concept that has not previously been tested, will promote an active and healthy lifestyle locally, generate employment and bring back into use a vacant space representing effective and efficient use of land in a sustainable location.
About Us:
We are a team of knowledgeable planners and urban designers who go the extra mile for our clients. We deal with a whole variety of projects from the niche to the ordinary; from fuel depots and paragraph 55 dwellings, to bespoke annexe accommodation and changes of use.
If you are seeking professional planning support on a project, then contact the team to see how we can best assist: enquiries@plainview.co.uk.