Thumbs-up for offices-to-flats conversion

Fri 30 November 2012, 1:40 pm

Enfield Council has approved proposals to convert a 1970s office building in the town into a 36-apartment development.

Planners this week gave their backing to the proposals for Wenlock House, on Eaton Road, which will see the addition of a new terrace level to the four- and five-storey split-height building.

Enfield’s planning committee was also told that YSFA and Fairview New Homes’ plans for the vacant building include the addition of balconies, new windows, and re-cladding.

In a report to councillors, planning officers said that although there is a presumption against the loss of office space in Enfield town centre, Wenlock House has been vacant for the past two years and supporting evidence indicated there is a greater need in the town for smaller office accommodation than the building offered.

The report said: “It is agreed with the applicant that while there is a loss of office accommodation, the proposed residential units would generate some additional footfall, thereby potentially enhancing the viability and vitality of the town centre.”

<