Jeremy Holt, of Magic Carpets Commercial Ltd, has applied for planning permission to turn 7-11 Brown Street into residential units.
The building consists of the now-vacant Shergold Funeral Directors and City Carpets stores, plus residential space on the first floor.
Mr Holt obtained prior approval to change the building’s use in November, but that consent did not cover any changes to its external appearance.
The building is described as ‘negative impact’ (Image: Newsquest) He has now lodged proposals for “plan and elevational amendments and a replacement bike store”.
If the plans are approved, the building would be turned into two one-bedroom apartments and one studio apartment, plus secure storage for 15 bicycles.
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A planning statement says the scheme would ‘improve the look of this redundant/negative impact building’ and give it a ‘residential appearance’.
“The proposal brings ‘life and movement’ to an otherwise ‘dead’ stretch of Brown Street,” it says.
Mr Holt has already obtained prior approval to change the building’s use (Image: Newsquest)“Whilst a ground floor residential use would be largely uncharacteristic of this street, it must be noted that this aspect of the proposals has already been secured by the earlier prior approval application, which remains extant and therefore forms a fallback position which should be afforded significant weight in the planning balance.
“The properties are located in a highly sustainable location with good access to employment, transport, leisure and all other facilities.
“The absence of on-site car parking and provision of secure storage for 15 bikes will encourage sustainable modes of transport.”
Wiltshire Council is accepting comments on these proposals (application reference PL/2024/11556) until January 21. A decision is expected by February 13.