Plans to convert former butcher shop approved

A planning application to create three new studio apartments in the town centre has been approved by officials.

The application, submitted by Morris Marshall and Poole on behalf of Mr Thakur aims to convert the stores on the ground floor, first floor and outbuilding into three studio apartments at the now closed, Peter Jacks Butchers Shop at 6 Market Street.

The proposals would see the now vacant stores at the rear of the property and the outbuilding converted into three studio flats. The flats will each have one bedroom, bathroom and kitchen/lounge areas. The flat situated in the outbuilding will have second bedroom.

There was also two public responses of objection received which indicated the plans would lead to a loss of privacy and an increase in traffic.

In response to those, the planning case officer, Ms Bowen, stated:

"The public response has raised concern over inadequate access and an increase in traffic.

"The property does not benefit from off-street parking and the Highway Authority have advised that the proposed development is considered to generate less traffic movements than the existing commercial usage, therefore, the proposed residential use would result in a lower parking demand."

"Revised plans have shown secure cycle storage and on this basis the Highway Authority have not objected to the development, subject to a condition to require the provision of the cycle storage."

Town councillors also supported the plans when they discussed it back in December, but noted that the replacement windows were not compliant with the Newtown Conservation Area. The final decision was made by Powys County Council planning officers.

The plans also align with the plans to move the Newtown Post Office to the same premises, subject to consultation. These plans would be unaffected by this application.