BCP Council (Bournemouth area): Jess Glover MRTPI is delighted to inform that she has recently secured planning permission and listed building consent for alterations and the change of use of the former bank (now Use Class E) to an adult gaming centre (Sui Generis Use Class) in Bournemouth town centre on Old Christchurch Road.

The building is Grade II listed and within a conservation area and therefore we were required to assess the impact the proposal would have on the heritage assets. As the proposal only required internal alterations including the removal of non-original stud walls and replacement of the existing non-original tiled ceiling with an acoustic ceiling, it was considered the proposal would safeguard the historic fabric of the building and would safeguard the character and appearance of the conservation area.

We submitted a comprehensive Design, Access, Planning and Heritage Statement to accompany the application which provided the planning justification for the scheme. The plans were drawn by LMA Architects.

During the course of the application, the Planning Policy Officer requested additional information to justify the loss of Use Class E premises. As such, we were required to submit marketing information for the site which proved that there was no interest or demand for the premises in its current use. Therefore the officer agreed that the Sui Generis use of the premises was appropriate on the site. The client was delighted with the outcome and is excited to open the premises soon.

If you are looking for a change of use and would like some confidential, free-of-charge advice, please do not hesitate to email at info@puretownplanning.co.uk or give us a call on 01202 585524.