Former vets' building is to be given new lease of life in Chatteris
A former veterinary surgery is to be give a new lease of life as a two-bedroom home after planners agreed to a change of use.
Andrew Bennett of Hemmingford Abbotts-based ARB Commercial Enterprises Limited applied to Fenland District Council for permission to convert the former Best Friends surgery in Victoria Street, Chatteris into a home with a lounge/diner, kitchen, bathroom, study and two bedrooms one of which will have an en-suite.
a design and access statement drawn up by ATP Architects and Surveyors and submitted in support of the application explains: "As the veterinary surgery is now vacant and has been for some time, our client wishes to develop the site.
"The veterinary surgery has not been financially viable for several years before closing and despite trying, no new veterinary practices have been interested in purchasing the property.
"Due to its location, restricted parking and no shop front and now the economic downturn the applicant wishes to change the use to residential for the ground floor to avoid the property becoming vacant in the long term .
"By its nature and location, the proposal is considered appropriate for the building and makes economic use of the facility and will further provide additional essential residential accommodation in great demand throughout the local area.
"The character of the existing buildings surrounding the site will not be harmed as a result of this development and the amenity they enjoy will not be affected."
A report drawn up by Fenland planning officer Nikki Carter recommended approval for the application, and it was granted this week.
She said: "The principal of residential development is supported and there are no issues to be resolved in relation to heritage, visual amenity, residential amenity of existing dwellings or flood risk. It is acknowledged that the residential amenity afforded to future occupiers is less than ideal and the loss of a commercial unit unfortunate, however the site is in a predominately residential area, would bring back into use a characterful building within the conservation area, thereby securing its future."
She continued: "Whilst there is a lack of on-site parking, the parking provision requirements for a 2-bed dwelling are significantly less than for the existing veterinary surgery. As such, on balance, a favourable recommendation may be forthcoming."
