Important to correct the OP by clarifying that this application (which I'm not involved in I should add) isn't a planning application, it's an application for prior approval.In May 2013 the Government relaxed the planning legislation to enable existing office buildings to be converted into residential units without requiring planning permission. The applicant still has to apply for prior approval, but in determining such an application the Council can only have regard to (a) flood risk, (b) contaminated land, and (c) traffic and parking issues.I.e. the Council cannot have any regard to all the other considerations it would usually take into account when determining a planning application, like the size of the units, provision of amenity space, any loss of residential amenity considerations, or the principle of the loss of employment floorspace.The silly part of this legislation also requires the Council to formally notify surrounding residents of a prior approval application, even though unless they're an expert in flood risk, contaminated land or traffic and parking matters their representations are effectively pointless.
Adam Beamish ● 3976d