Changes have been approved for two historic buildings in Dudley and Stourbridge, including the former police station and a canal-side warehouse dating back to 1779.
Former Police Station Conversion
Dudley Council planners have given the green light for alterations to the ground floor of the former police station on New Street. The scheme involves converting two flats and a caretaker's office into a retail unit. No exterior changes are required for the locally listed building.
The building now houses 24 flats, 12 of which are socially rented. Agents Planning, Design and Build Limited said the conversion will be a welcome addition.
A statement supporting the application noted: "The applicant has confirmed that the retail facility would provide the residential occupiers of the building as the primary users, those especially with social needs a shared onsite facility that meets their needs as well as other wider local users in the city centre. Neighbouring residential occupiers will find the facility of great benefit, and this will improve the immediate onsite convenience and range of services that improve their lives and improve social interaction."
Bonded Warehouse Staircase
Another historic site, the Grade II listed Bonded Warehouse in Stourbridge, has also secured approval for changes. Planners agreed to install a new staircase at the entrance on Canal Street. The work will convert the existing single staircase into a double staircase and add bollards to ensure safe pedestrian access along a footway to the building.
A report from Dudley Council planning officers stated: "The proposed external stair and matching bollards have been sensitively designed to respect the character and significance of the Grade II listed Bonded Warehouse. The works are minor in nature, reversible, and will not adversely affect the building's special interest. They are considered to preserve the special architectural and historic interest of the Bonded Warehouse and its setting, resulting in little to no harm to the significance of the designated heritage asset."
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