Plans unveiled for new flats in Oswestry

Applicant Shropshire Trading Ltd has applied to Shropshire Council for full planning permission to create 15 self-contained apartments off Middleton Road, Oswestry. The scheme involves converting some former offices into one to three bedroom apartments, and creating a parking area and cycle storage.

Applicants say the development will provide 'much needed' homes for local people and will not have any major affects on residents.

A report on behalf of the applicant says: "The applicant is an experienced local landlord with a reputation for providing very good accommodation.

"Plas Fynnon is an attractive period property that was built as a single dwelling but until some two years ago was used as offices.

"Since then it has been empty and is now suffering badly from lack of maintenance. It is deteriorating badly.

"It is too large for a single commercial use and in the current economic climate it is unlikely to find a new office user.

"The most predictable scenario is that the property will be sold for demolition and redevelopment.

"This would be the practical economic solution, but it would result in the loss to the community of a very attractive and significant part of the town's history.

"The proposals are to demolish one of the unattractive deteriorating modern extensions and convert the remaining buildings into 15 apartments."

The report adds: "The residential use is completely appropriate given the location and history of the building. It is in a sustainable location that is convenient for all facilities and services, and all the works will be completed in a way and using materials that are sustainable and ecologically friendly.

"None of the surrounding neighbours or land users will be adversely affected."

By James Pugh