Driving theory test building to become 90 flats after plans approved

Many will remember the building as the location where they took their driving theory test

Plans to convert a prominent Peterborough office building once used as a driving theory test centre into flats have taken a step forward.

MJS Construction based in March submitted an application for prior approval in July for plans which would see the five-storey Churchgate building on New Road converted into 90 self-contained apartments.

This was granted by Peterborough City Council in August, meaning the development can begin within the next three years.

The proposal included 48 one-bedroom one-person units, 16 one-bedroom two-person units and 26 two-bedroom three-person units.

“The scheme does not increase the building footprint and represents an efficient re-use of existing built floorspace,” MJS Construction’s planning statement reads.

There are already 95 car parking spaces and the development would provide 58 secure cycle spaces within a dedicated cycle store inside the building.

Granting the application, the council case officer’s report concluded: “Upon assessment of the proposed development and following consultation with relevant bodies, it is considered that the proposed development will not result in unacceptable impact upon the safety of the public highway, contaminated land, increased flood risk elsewhere or be at risk of flooding itself.”

It also stated that the proposal would not result in unacceptable noise disturbance to neighbouring occupants and would provide adequate provision of natural light in all habitable rooms.

The Churchgate office building was reportedly sold to a private investor in 2024 in a deal completed by property agents Eddisons.