| 1. | In order for such a proposal to be granted Prior Approval, it is necessary that the proposal does not have an adverse impact on the character of the Conservation Area arising from the change in use of the whole or part of the ground floor. The proposal also includes operational development which requires planning permission in its own right and which is not possible through the Prior Approval process under Part 3 Class MA. The operational development proposed in this application is a fundamental requirement to achieve the change of use and involves a partial change of use of the ground floor of the premises. The alterations have not been justified and fail to conserve and enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and cause a degree of harm and adverse impact to the designated heritage asset by proposing alterations to the external elevations and shop front which does not take account of the building's symmetry and the visual rhythm of the elevation and which, it is considered, would cause some harm to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area. Class MA only allows the change of use of the building, and does not permit any building operations (such as external changes). As a result, the proposal fails to comply with Condition MA.2 (2)(e) of Part 3, Schedule 2 to the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended), and to refuse the application would be consistent with the requirements of paragraph W(10)(b) of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) because the proposal would be in conflict with paragraphs 199 and 200 of the National Planning Policy Framework. |