Approval for residential conversion of prominent office building

Plans to convert a prominent Sheffield office building into more than 80 flats have been given the green light.DLP Planning, on behalf of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance, submitted an application to Sheffield City Council in August 2019 to determine whether prior approval is required for the change of use of Concept House on Young Street.The seven-storey building was constructed in 1995 and is currently occupied by HM Revenue & Customs. However, it has been included on a list sites earmarked for closure in 2020/21.The proposal covers the conversion of the building to create a total of 83 flats, with 46 two-bed and 37 one-bed units.The residents would have access to the on-site parking area, comprising 118 spaces.The council’s planning officer, acting under delegated powers, has now determined that the change of use to flats is considered acceptable and, as such, prior approval is not required.An application for a series of external works to the building has also been approved.An application has also been submitted to convert Concept House into a hotel and commercial units.Under these plans, a total of 161 bedrooms would be created across the upper floors. A bar/restaurant unit would be created on the ground floor and operate independently from the hotel. The basement, which is currently used as a car park, would operate as an independent gym. A car park situated to the rear of the site would provide 37 spaces.