Green light for conversion of historic building

A proposed apartment development which involves the conversion of a historic building in Wolverhampton has been approved.GSP Developments sought outline approval to transform the site of Beckminster House on Birches Barn Road.Beckminster House was constructed in approximately 1845. It has been a family residence, a school for children with special needs, a base for the local Home Guard during World War II and a training facility and offices run by the council.The proposals include the conversion of Beckminster House to form six apartments, the demolition of extensions and outbuildings mainly carried out in the 1970s and the construction of a new staggered two- and three-storey apartment block to the rear portion of the site behind Beckminster House to form 30 apartments.In total, 36 one- to three-bedroom properties will be provided.City of Wolverhampton Council’s planning considered the application on 14 November.A report for the committee said: “This is a welcome application that would restore a listed building, retain and enhance its landscaped frontage and provide new homes in a spacious setting.”The scheme would provide significant benefits that outweigh any potential disbenefits, including all the relevant material planning considerations raised by objectors, and there are no justifiable reasons to refuse the application.”