Plans to convert a former office approved

Plans to convert a former office in Amersham into flats have been given the green light.

The proposal is to convert Leywood House on Woodside Road in the town from commercial spaces to five flats.

As the application was for prior notification, the council confirmed that no prior approval was needed and the development could go ahead.

Work will involve changing the first and second floor from commercial use to provide three, one bedroom and two, two bedroom residential flats.

It said in planning documents; “The application site comprises a three-storey commercial building attached to the rear of Metro House, a two storey commercial building which fronts Woodside Road.

“The site is not located within a conservation area. The site does not contain, nor is it adjacent to, any statutorily or locally listed buildings.

“The site is considered to be within a highly sustainable location due to its proximity and accessibility to a range of services, employment and public transport. The site is accessed off Woodside Road.

“The proposed units will all exceed the minimum standards as per the Nationally Described Space Standards. All habitable rooms will be served by windows providing natural light, ventilation and outlook

“Access to the site will remain as per the existing arrangements off Woodside Road. No vehicle parking will be provided as part of the proposals.

“The site is considered to be highly sustainable located within the District Shopping Centre of Amersham and within walking distance of local amenities and regular public transport facilities.”

No external alterations to the building or its internal structure are proposed, and no changes would be made to the existing vehicle access.

Environmental protection had raised concerns about the noise and reduced amenity for residents due to being close to a builder’s merchant.

But the applicant provided a noise impact assessment that confirms that noise from the builders yard has “significantly reduced.”

It said: “The consultants report that noise levels at the exposed façade of the flats although elevated are within tolerable levels, allowing windows to be partially open for ventilation during daytime periods.

“Having regards to the noise impact assessment and changed activities within the builders merchants EH has reviewed the application and we believe the granting of the change of use for the building will not create a significant noise nuisance or reduced amenity to the residents of the proposed flats.”

While the council said prior approval was not required, a separate Regulation 77 application will still need to be submitted and approved before the change of use can commence, as the site lies within the Zone of Influence of the Chiltern Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation (SAC).