TWO listed Georgian townhouses overlooking Parade Gardens will be converted into eight flats, if plans are approved.
A planning application submitted by James Lane seeks permission to refurbish 4 and 5 Elizabeth Place and change their use from a lodging house into eight self-contained one-bedroom homes.
The Grade 3 listed buildings were originally constructed as separate townhouses but were later joined together, probably when they became guest-house accommodation during the 20th century.
A planning statement prepared by Morris Architects says their current accommodation “falls below modern residential expectations”, citing fragmented layouts, poor thermal performance, limited natural light in some areas and inadequate ceiling heights in the basement.
The proposals include lowering the basement floor by around 40cm, removing modern partitions, altering internal openings and taking out one staircase. A new rear window would also be created, while roof tiles and windows would be replaced.
Slim-profile double-glazed timber sash windows, upgraded insulation and modernised services are intended to improve energy efficiency and comfort.
The plans acknowledge that lowering the basement and removing a staircase would have a “moderate impact” on the building’s heritage significance.
However, the planning statement argues that the changes would cause “less than substantial harm”, outweighed by the restoration of the properties and their continued residential use.
The buildings form part of a terrace of eight houses, all of which are listed. Their main heritage value is said to come from their contribution to the terrace and historic streetscape rather than surviving internal features.
Although the scheme would result in a net loss of housing units, the application says it would replace substandard accommodation with homes meeting contemporary standards. The plans also include shared outdoor space and cycle parking.
