SD23A/0347
Change of use for the ground floor of the existing two storey Public House Block D (disused/vacant) and the ground floor of the proposed Block C. The application seeks modifications to Block C and Block D of the previously granted permission SDCC Reg. Ref. SD18A/0202. Block C comprised a 3 storey building accommodating 2 no. retail units on the ground floor and 6 no. apartments (5 no. 2 bedroom and 1 no. 1 bedroom) across the first and second floor. Block D comprised refurbishment, alteration and extension of a 2 storey existing Public House building to accommodate 1 no. commercial office unit on ground floor and 1 no. 2 bed apartment on the first floor along with a new bin/bike store at the rear. The modifications seek a change of use from previously granted retail/commercial use to residential use to provide an additional 4 no. 2 bedroom apartment units on the ground floor of Blocks C & D. The proposed works to Block C include a change of external material finishes and replacing the glazing of retail units with windows for the proposed apartment units on the ground floor to accommodate 3 no. 2 bedroom apartments accessed through entrance corridor. The proposed works to Block D include removing the existing doors/windows and replacing them with new doors/windows to match the existing to accommodate 1 no. 2 bedroom apartment on the ground floor of the existing two storey former Public House. All with associated bin store, bicycle store and associated site works.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposal would result in the loss of active street-level commercial frontage in a village core and provide substandard residential amenity for future occupants.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The removal of ground floor retail and commercial uses would significantly diminish street-level activity and contravene policies aimed at supporting the vitality and economic growth of Saggart's village core.
- The proposed residential units would offer substandard living conditions due to a lack of public open space and the poor quality, design, and orientation of private amenity areas.
- Granting permission would set an undesirable precedent for similar developments and conflict with the 'VC' zoning objective intended to protect and improve village centers.