New flats get go-ahead in St Andrews town centre
Two flats are to be created in St Andrews town centre after a planning application was approved by Fife Council.
Skye Sands Ltd had applied for permission to change the use of the first floor and attic area at 7 and 9 Bell Street - above Boots the Optician’s shop.
Work will see roof alterations and extensions carried out, the installation of doors replacement windows, the formation of a deck to the rear and the installation of a plant screen.
The first floor of the C-listed property will change in part from a cafe and beauty salon to a flat.
The attic floor will go from cafe storage and office to another accommodation unit.
“We consider the proposed changes to the front is in keeping with the existing streetscene and would not detract from the conservation area and would not significantly affect the setting of the adjacent listed buildings or the conservation area,” it said.
“The proposed changes to the rear of the building would not be visible to the public streetscene and this area is bounded on all sides by a mixture of commercial buildings.
“We consider the internal and external alterations would not have a significant impact on the character and appearance of this C Listed Building and the external refurbishment works proposed will ensure the longevity of the building.”
A report from Fife Council planners said the change of use of the upper floors for flats was considered acceptable.
“It is a typical characteristic locally of ground floor properties being commercial in use and then residential above,” it stated. “The proposed works are not considered to have an adverse impact on the design/character/architectural or historic importance, nor would the proposal have an impact on the setting of the listed building and conservation area.
“It is determined that the proposed development would not have an adverse impact on the character and appearance of the Category C listed building, complying with the above noted legislation, development plan policies and national guidance.”
The plans were approved however a condition was attached that the property will not be used as a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) in the future unless a further application is submitted for consideration.