Valley Environmental Planning, on behalf of Dr Charles and Mrs Judith Owston, is seeking permission to convert the ground floor of 6 Horsemarket, Middleton-in-Teesdale, from a commercial unit into a residential property.
The current owners of Judith’s Art Gallery, aged 90 and 80, fear the premises could become derelict if left empty.
Submitted plans indicate that the conversion would comply with Class MA of the Town and Country Planning order of 2021.
This permission allows the change of use of buildings from commercial to residential under certain conditions.
Operating as a commercial property for more than 20 years, it meets all necessary criteria for conversion according to the application.
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It is not part of a site of special scientific interest, a listed building, a scheduled monument, or in other restricted zones, which would otherwise prevent the conversion.
No external alterations are planned, maintaining the character and sustainability of the conservation area where the property is situated.
The gallery, with its existing large windows, will also provide adequate natural light for residential use.
The planning application also states that the current parking facilities for the building are adequate for residential use, with no anticipated additional strain on public roads.
There are no significant contamination or flooding risks identified.
Two nearby cafes do not pose a significant noise issue for residential use, the application states.
The site is not in a restricted area such as a site of special scientific interest, a listed building, or a National Park.
Any future dwelling will meet minimum space standards according to forms lodged with the council.
The application has been submitted to Durham County Council for consideration.