Approval in principle for the conversion of the basement and ground floor to six residential units

Why Was This Refused?

• ✓Six units considered too many for the available basement and ground floor space
• ✓Proposed accommodation would be inadequate under Planning Circular 2/88 standards
• ✓Application was only for approval in principle, but the fundamental concern remained
• ✓Decision notice indicated three units might be acceptable as an alternative
• ✓Refused by Planning Committee, in line with officer recommendation
• ✓not convinced that six units could be suitably created that accord with the provisions of Planning Circular 2/88

The application sought approval in principle to convert the basement and ground floor of a former hotel on Mooragh Promenade, Ramsey into six residential units. The officer was not satisfied that six units of adequate size and quality could be created within the available space in a way that would comply with Planning Circular 2/88, which sets out standards for the conversion of buildings into flats. The Planning Committee refused the application on the basis that the proposed conversion would result in inadequate living accommodation. Notably, the decision notice indicated that a conversion into three units — rather than six — might be acceptable in principle, subject to the same circular's provisions.

The Committee refused the application because fitting six residential units into the basement and ground floor of the former hotel would produce accommodation that falls below the standards required by Planning Circular 2/88 on converting buildings into flats. The officer shared this concern and recommended refusal. The decision notice suggested that a reduced scheme of three units could potentially be acceptable.

Policies Assessed (1)

Documents (15)