Two-storey Leigh commercial unit set to become flats

The scheme to transform the two-storey property on Leigh Road has been given the go-ahead by the council.

The building, listed as 15A—17A Leigh Road, will be converted into three self-contained flats by Property Mart Ltd, as per Wigan Council’s planning documents.

Planning officers consented to the change of use from a Class E commercial property to a Class C3 residential unit, along with alterations to the exterior.

The detailed plans approved include changes to the ground and first floors of the building, along with revised elevations.

The proposal, initially received by the council on July 21 and validated on September 5, stems from an application made under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning and Compensation Act 2004.

The applicant now has a three-year window to begin the development.

This timeline is a standard requirement set out in Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act, as amended.

Amongst the conditions set by the council is the requirement for the provision of secure cycle storage facilities for a minimum of three cycles, to encourage sustainable transport options.

The new dwelling will also require an approved scheme for electric vehicle (EV) charging provision, in line with initiatives to improve air quality and support sustainable transport.

Further guidance provided by the council includes the need for the developer to consider any potential coal mining hazards.

The development, situated in a coal mining area, requires due acknowledgement of potential mine gas risks, stability, and other potential environmental impacts.

With the planning permission granted, the developer now awaits fulfilment of these stipulations before the use can commence on the residential conversion.