Change of use of the ground floor from retail to residential
The loss of a retail outlet may be an inevitable consequence of the current economic climate. The Society believes it should not be an excuse for creating sub standard and cramped accommodation in the heart of Cookham.
Two flats are proposed for the ground floor. Flat 1 has two bedrooms and an area of just under 52 square metres whilst the minimum standard for a two-bedroom flat is 61square metres. Flat 2 is even worse, it has an area of 19 square metres in comparison with the minimum required for a single person one bedroom flat of 37 square metres. (To put the diminutive size of Flat 2 in perspective RBWM require a garage space for a single car of 18 square metres.) The proposal also fails to show any provision for outside amenity areas, parking, bin stores or cycle stores.
This application is made under Class M Permitted Development but appears to be directly in contravention of the Borough’s own recently stated design policies. The Society has requested refusal.
If you agree please add your voice by sending your comments directly to RBWM Planning Services -
Email:
planning@rbwm.gov.uk
