Conversion of offices into 46 flats APPROVED despite Sheffield court saying plan poses an "unacceptable risk"
The plans have been granted conditional approval
Sheffield City Council has approved plans to convert an office building into flats despite the court service alleging it will present an “unacceptable risk” to the justice system’s operations.
Developers at Wilson Architects have now secured approval to convert the former Health and Safety Executive offices on Millsands into apartments, fitted with its own car park and cycle storage.
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Documents submitted to the council detail that the building would consist of 46 one-bedroom flats, just a stone’s thrown away from both Sheffield Crown Court and Sheffield Magistrates’ Court.
However, HM Court and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) has previously submitted an objection to the plans, claiming that the proposed apartments would “overlook sensitive areas of SCC (Sheffield Combined Courts), including judicial accommodation and operational facilities”.
Additional concerns were raised about the new traffic and parking problems the apartments may cause, and the noise impact which could “prejudice the normal operation of the court” - with particular fears for court retiring rooms and the District Judge chambers.
An objection submitted by the courts goes on to say: “The HMCTS therefore considers that the proposal presents an unacceptable risk to the continued operation, security and amenity of the court and its users, and objects to the application accordingly.”
Despite this, a council planning officer reviewing the proposal suggested the plan goes ahead, saying that indoor cycle provisions and existing pedestrian access would help with transport problems and it “cannot be demonstrated to be adverse or severe”.
It is also clarified that no on-street parking will be granted.
“The concerns of the courts are noted, but many of the concerns raised are not matters for consideration in the prior notification procedure such as privacy or impact of noise from the residential development on neighbouring properties,” the officer’s report continues.
“Similarly, the profile of future occupiers is not known and cannot be required.
“Where concerns raised are a material consideration such as the highway impacts, the provision of the small car park, the provision of cycle parking and the proximity to the city centre and public transport network means that the proposal is considered acceptable on highway grounds, and the potential harm is not considered to be significant so as to justify the refusal of permission.”
The plans have been granted conditional approval, with developers now needing to submit further documents to the council ahead of construction.