UPPERMILL’S former bank building could be brought back to life and house six new apartments if planning permission is granted.
Charlotte Payne has applied to Oldham Council to renovate what was the Natwest branch that has stood empty since 2017.
The only alteration would be an extension on the roof, so the six properties – three one-bedroomed, three two-bedroomed – can fit in, with the admission that only having four in its current structure would not make financial sense.
And documents supporting the application believe it can enhance the area around the High Street building, which is recognised as a non-designated heritage asset.
They state: “The building’s inactive use is detrimental to the character of the surrounding area and its setting within the Uppermill Conservation Area.
“The proposal provides an opportunity to bring back into use a vacant building, enhancing the conservation area and provide wider benefits to the local community. “
If approved, two apartments would sit on each floor while the existing basement will be converted to provide additional storage for each one and a secure cycle store.
The roof top extension – described as ‘a modern contemporary interpretation of a traditional pitched roof’ – is proposed over half of the building, replacing the existing attic space with a roof top apartment, while minimal changes are being proposed to the facades.
Access will remain via the existing corner entrance with the existing steps being retained.
A temporary removable ramp can be placed over the steps in the event of a wheelchair requiring access.
Pre-application discussions with Oldham Council have brought alterations after concerns over the original plan for the roof top extension.
Discussions were also had regarding various uses for the property, including the possibility of a hotel and/or restaurant and bar.
And documents add: “The proposals represent a viable, appropriate option for the change of use of the vacant bank building.
“The proposals offer spacious, contemporary living in an attractive place to live and work which will benefit the variety of services and facilities that the local community has to offer.
“The proposed development would generate significant benefits including bringing a property that has been vacant for over seven years back into use and thereby making an efficient use of an existing building, animating the building’s elevations and enlivening the street scene as well as having a positive effect on the character and appearance of Uppermill Conservation Area and securing the future viable use of a non-designated heritage asset, sustaining and enhancing its significance.”
Oldham Council’s planning committee will decide whether to grant or refuse planning permission.
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