PART OF a historic shopping arcade could be turned into apartments if planning permission is granted.
Clarence Arcade in Ashton-under-Lyne was subject of an attempt to create three houses in multiple occupation (HMO).
Manchester-based JJRH Commercial Ltd applied to Tameside Council to convert the vacant office space into seven-bed, six-bed and three-bed HMOs, along with associated residents’ co-working space, a cinema room, bin storage, cycle storage and minor external alterations.
Now after that was rejected, Joseph Robertson of the same firm wants to place nine apartments at the Staveleigh way end of the Stamford Street Central building.
One will be a studio apartment and will be alongside three one-bedroomed properties on the first floor. Four one-bedroomed homes will be on the second, with another in the attic level.
Bike and bin stores will be placed at the rear of the ground floor, which backs on to Fleet Street.
Documents supporting the application state reasons why it should be approved, not least because of its lack of traffic impact.
They say: “The site is located in a sustainable and accessible location with access to the full range of shops, amenities and services within Ashton town centre.
“The site also benefits from excellent public transport links due to being within walking distance of Ashton-under-Lyne railway station and Ashton-under-Lyne bus and Metrolink Interchange.
“Due to its high level of sustainability and accessibility, it is not considered necessary for future residents to own a car.
“Nevertheless, there are readily accessible public car parks available including on the opposite side of Fleet Street.
“The scheme will also provide cycle storage with space for 12 bikes (over 100 per cent provision) which will help promote sustainable travel patterns.
“Given the high levels of accessibility of the site it is not considered necessary for future residents to own a car.
“Any car parking requirements associated with the proposed development would be comparable to or less than the lawful use and will not result in a material change/increase in vehicular movements or car parking.
“The reuse of the vacant commercial floorspace on the upper floors of the building for residential use will have a positive impact on the character and sustainability of the conservation area by providing occupation of an historic building and contributing footfall and activity.
“The proposed scheme does not involve any external alterations, whilst its reoccupation will ensure the continued upkeep/maintenance of the building.”
Clarence Arcade, built in 1894 as a shopping venue, has been used for a variety of purposes in recent years.
However, the office space targeted has been vacant for a period of time.
Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning) committee will decide whether to grant or refuse permission.