Case Study 03: Planning Appraisal for Change of Use From Offices to HMO for 15 Bedrooms in Conservation Area

The client instructed Homz to provide feasibility on their property for a Change of Use from Offices to HMO in West Berkshire Council. Our Senior Town Planner has conducted research within the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) to understand whether the local planning authority is applying any constraints on your property.

The proposed development aligns with local Planning policy guidelines, which prioritize residential expansion on existing developed land within designated settlement boundaries. The project entails repurposing the building, preserving its lower ground floor office space while converting the remaining sections into residential Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO). This approach adheres to local regulations and is deemed acceptable in principle.

Given the property’s Grade II listed status and its location within a conservation area, meticulous consideration is imperative regarding both external and internal alterations. All modifications must uphold or improve the property’s historical and architectural significance, ensuring no adverse impact on its primary architectural features.

 After the planning appraisal, our Architects and Town Planners prepared the supporting documents Architectural Plans, and Planning Statements. Please see the plans of this project in our Portfolio. Our team has successfully submitted and managed the planning application with the council. Following the waiting period of the decision, Homz has scored another successful Approval for this planning application on behalf of our client.