Decision due on key worker flats plan in Brierley Hill
Council chiefs are preparing to make a decision over plans to transform an old clothes shop into flats for key workers.
DOMO Developments want to put 15 flats in the property on Dudley Road, Brierley Hill, which used to be a wedding outfit and men’s formal wear store.
It sits in the Brierley Hill Conservation Area and developers insist it will continue to complement the listed buildings it is near once it has been converted.
A statement from Claremont Planning, agents for the scheme, said the building "occupies a highly sustainable location for residential development, within the strategic centre of Brierley Hill".
It adds: "The proposed development seeks to respond to both supply side and market deficiencies identified, through the provision of 15 apartments targeted towards local ‘key workers’ which are to be marketed at an accessible price point for local people.
"The scale and massing of the proposed development is such that the application site will continue to appear subordinate to the larger, locally listed structures adjacent, whilst the introduction of soft landscaping measures to the rear of the site will represent an enhancement of the settings of the locally listed buildings nearby.
“The proposed development therefore seeks to enhance the character and setting of the conservation area and surrounding locally listed buildings, and thus presents less than substantial harm to these assets.
“The development is considered to be emblematic of sustainable development, making strong contributions to the social, economic, and environmental objectives.
“As identified, the proposed development seeks to deliver residential accommodation at a highly sustainable urban location, with the housing tenure and type informed by an assessment of local housing needs."
An objection against the scheme has been submitted by Sound Junkies rehearsal rooms.
It raised concerns that the development will affect local businesses due to a "lack of allocated parking", and also that it could lead to complaints from residents.
"We have seen enough venues and business forced with restrictions due to the constant housing growth," the objection said.
Planners at Dudley Council are expected to make a decision on the scheme in the coming weeks.
