Could apartments breathe new life into this Wellingborough building?

The property used to be a window blinds showroom
Would you like to see apartments built here?Would you like to see apartments built here?
Would you like to see apartments built here?

Developers believe their plans for 14 apartments would give this part of Wellingborough 'a lift' and help bring it back to life.

An application for change of use from A1 to C3 to create 14 self-contained residential apartments has gone in for 46-48 Cannon Street.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Proposed works also consist of the erection of a new floor and new mansard roof for the building which was most recently used as a window blinds showroom.

Planning documents say the proposed apartments would 'bring life back to a run down building which is becoming an eyesore.'

They say the existing building has been neglected for many years so is in need of full renovation.

The design and access statement adds: "Our scheme will have no negative impact on any neighbouring properties because it is going to improve the building by bringing it back to life.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"The scheme we have put forward will bring back the characteristics of the original factory and being a corner plot it will certainly enhance the local area as this will be a high quality renovation internally and externally.

"This part of Wellingborough needs a lift and bringing back to life, so developments like these will surely encourage other developers to invest money into the area.

"There are a number of redundant and dis-used buildings on Cannon Street so the local authority need to recognise that these all need to be brought back to use for the benefit of the local economy."

If the plans are approved, each apartment would have its own bedroom, kitchen, living area and bathroom.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

While there would be no off-street car parking, the proposals include external locked and sheltered bike stores to 'aid sustainable living.'

Planning permission has already been granted for a similar scheme at this site, albeit for nine apartments rather than 14.

However, the applicant has said this is no longer viable for numerous reasons including post-Covid valuations and economic uncertainty.

The planning documents go on to say: "The current building is part derelict and it is in no physical state to be used for any practical use.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"It cannot be rented as a commercial, industrial or residential use because it is not secure, water tight, or in an acceptable condition for a new business to take over.

"In its current state, the lack of investment is clearly shown with water leakages, damp issues, broken gutters, cracked windows, rotten window frames, different brickwork etc.

"This is a clear indication that unless a considerable amount of capital is invested into this property it will unfortunately continue to deteriorate and become another redundant and derelict building which is no good for anybody.

"An approval of nine apartments has been granted by the council so the principle of development is there.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"However with the rising costs of materials and labour the project is not feasible.

"The only way forward is to provide additional apartments.

"We accept there is the added requirement for parking for five additional units, however the parking survey data proves that there is more than sufficient space for parking within the surrounding areas.

"There is also a clear need for additional housing in Wellingborough and this development would certainly add to the local government targets of new homes."

For more information about the application, which will be considered by Wellingborough Council, click here.

Message from the editor:

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you