Plans Unveiled for 11 New Flats on Crown Street, Peterborough

Plans have been submitted to Peterborough City Council for the demolition of several commercial buildings to pave the way for the construction of 11 new residential flats. The proposal, put forth by Surjit Singh Developments Ltd, seeks full planning permission to transform number 80 Crown Street into three one-bedroom flats. Additionally, a new adjoining building is proposed at the front to house two more one-bedroom flats.

The project will involve the demolition of existing warehouses previously used for various commercial purposes. This space will be repurposed to accommodate six one-bedroom flats at the rear of the property, located at 74 to 80 Crown Street. The development aims to respond to earlier feedback from city planners, who expressed concerns about the potential loss of employment opportunities in the area.

Addressing Community Concerns

A design and access statement prepared by PiP Architects on behalf of the applicant emphasized the benefits of converting the site from light commercial to residential use. The statement noted, “The proposed shift offers the opportunity to establish a more harmonious relationship with the surrounding dwellings, minimising the likelihood of noise, disruption, and environmental impact.”

In an effort to support their proposal, the developers have committed to providing a comprehensive marketing assessment. This assessment will demonstrate that the site is no longer viable for employment use, including evidence of an extended marketing period without successful interest and an evaluation of alternative employment options.

The new submission, made on August 8, 2023, also aims to address previous design concerns raised by city planners. The plans state that the development will integrate “sensitively” into the local streetscape. To further alleviate potential parking issues, 11 on-site parking bays are planned, along with three additional visitor bays. The developers assert that these provisions will reduce any extra pressure on existing parking facilities on Crown Street.

Next Steps for the Proposal

The design and access statement concluded with a commitment to enhance local architecture by delivering high-quality, safe, and sustainable homes to the neighbourhood. City council planners are set to review the application and will make a decision in the coming weeks.

This initiative reflects an ongoing trend in Peterborough, where the need for residential housing continues to grow. As the city evolves, developments like this highlight the balance between commercial viability and community needs, ensuring that urban spaces remain both functional and harmonious.