Plans to convert Victoria Square into 62 flats were refused due to insufficient natural light, sparking resident concerns.
The location is now a small business park with three commercial buildings on the property. These buildings range from three to five stories high.
One plan suggested 26 one-bedroom units and seven two-bedroom flats. The other plan proposed 25 one-bedroom flats and four two-bedroom units.
The floor plans detailed the layout of each apartment. Each apartment had a bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, living space, and storage, with a hallway also planned for each.
The planning authority refused permission for both applications. They cited insufficient natural light in the rooms, explaining that trees near the site blocked light.
The applicant disagreed with the decision, believing the plans met all rules. They then referenced the Town and Country Planning rules.
Many people objected to each application. Residents raised concerns during a public consultation.
One objection mentioned increased pollution. Residents expected more noise, smell, and light. They also anticipated heavier traffic due to the changes.
Another comment focused on preserving the area. They wanted the building’s character to remain. The wall around the site offers local privacy now, and changing or removing it would hurt privacy and damage the historic environment.