Town centre offices could be converted into 15-bed HMO after plans submitted

The application submitted on April 9 proposes converting the first, second and third floors of 25-29 Church Street from offices to a 15-bedroom HMO complete with bin and bike stores. The applicant, One Millbank Properties, says the development will include 'minor external alterations to the existing building' to 'ensure the efficient use of the site while contributing to the provision of shared residential accommodation'. They added that the HMO will support the objectives of the council by 'converting underutilised office space' and the plans will 'make efficient use of urban land within the Basingstoke town centre'.

No parking spaces are proposed to be included, however, the developer says that the location of the building and its proximity to public transport 'reduces the need for private vehicle ownership'. The site is in the town centre's conservation area, meaning planning officers must pay 'particular attention' to the scale, height, form, and materials of the proposals. Potential concerns about noise levels from the property would not lead to noise outputs 'above what could reasonably be expected within a residential area from time to time', say the developers.



The company urged Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to grant the application..