The report of the Director of Planning, Building Control and Licensing is enclosed.

This application relates to development comprising erection of four storey roof-top extension (for use within Class E (Commercial, Business and Service Uses); for use of floors 1-7 for use within Class E (Commercial, Business and Service Uses) and change of use of the basement and ground floor to permit Use Class E (Commercial, Business and Service Uses) and Drinking Establishments and Hot Food Takeaway (Sui Generis) use, external works associated with the formation of new ground floor entrances, sub-division of the ground floor into 9 units; works to windows including replacements, creation of winter gardens on the 6th floor; creation of external roof top amenity spaces; installation of new rooftop plant; the provision of secure cycle parking (255 spaces) in sub-basement and other associated works.

There is also an application for Listed Building Consent: Internal and external alterations to include: the erection of four storey roof-top extension; partial demolition of the floor structure to create the atrium; installation of a lightwell; external alterations to form new entrances on the ground floor; sub-division of the ground floor into smaller units the refurbishment; works to windows including replacements; demolition of a staircase; partial demolition of kitchen and plant structure on Floor 7; creation of winter gardens on the 6th floor; creation of external roof top amenity spaces; installation of new rooftop plant; refurbishment of the interiors and other associated works.

The Planning Officer provided an update the application and reported that following discussions with the application regarding concerns raised by local residents on the issue of privacy and overlooking. Agreement had been reached that a dense frit would be added to the bottom level of each window to head height to increase privacy of the residential properties adjacent.

The applicant’s agent addressed the Committee on the application.

Councillor Wheeler (ward Councillor) addressed the Committee to comment on the proposal. Reference was made to the extension planned on the top of the current building. Reference was also made on the loss of light to local properties adjacent to the building and impact this may have on the health and wellbeing of residents affected. Reference was made to the planning report that access to light in adjacent buildings it is unrealistic and asked if this could be addressed.

The Planning Officer reported that the planning report provided detailed responses to the points raised. 

The Chair invited members of the Committee to ask questions and comment of the application.

A member referred to the roof top and extension and why the structure is hidden from view and designed in an out of touch manner and the lack of light for residents.

The Planning Officer reported that the building is iconic within the city centre and had come to the end of its useful life in its current use. The applicant has looked at potential uses and has produced a sustainable use for the building that protects its historical integrity and an office building is considered the best future use. The roof top extension was added and is the smallest financially, commercially viable structure and design for the building. This has been assessed independently on its impact and is considered acceptable.

Councillor Shaukat Ali moved the proposal for the Committee to approve the application. Councillor Riasat seconded the proposal.

Decisions

1. The Committee approved the planning application 127881/FO/2020, subject to the Conditions detailed in the report submitted.

2. The Committee approved the application for List Building Consent 127882/LO/2020as detailed in the report submitted.

(Councillors Y Dar, Monaghan and Nasrin Ali left the meeting and did not take part in the vote on the application.)