Plan to convert Impington offices used by International Whaling Commission into flats blocked

Plans to convert a villa in Impington into 11 new flats have been blocked after concerns were raised.

Developer Hawkswren Ltd, proposed to turn 135 Station Road, currently used as offices, into 10 one-bedroom and one two-bedroom flat under permitted development rights, which negate the need for a full planning application if certain criteria are met.

The developer said the International Whaling Commission, which uses the building, is planning to move out.

In its application to South Cambridgeshire District Council, the developer said: “The development proposal will not give rise to any significant highways impacts in this area, this site is not at significant risk from contamination, flooding or noise impacts and importantly adequate natural light can penetrate all habitable rooms of the dwellinghouse.”

But the county council’s highways team said not enough information had been provided aout the impact of the redevelopment and planning officers at the district council said there was uncertainty about the existing use of an attached single storey warehouse and whether it could be covered by permitted development rights.

Officers said a flood risk assessment and proposed mitigation measures were also needed.

The district council refused to grant prior approval for the redevelopment.