Developer Forced to Apply for Retrospective Planning Permission for Rentable Flats

Bewick Homes Ltd, a Cambridgeshire-based developer, has rented out flats in a converted office building in Norwich despite not having planning permission for the new homes. The company, Bewick Homes, has been forced to apply for retrospective planning permission for the 24 apartments at Thorpe House, 79 Thorpe Road. If Norwich City Council does not approve the application, the developer could face enforcement action, which could result in the eviction of the tenants and the conversion reverting back to office space.

Key Takeaways:

• Bewick Homes Ltd rented out 24 apartments in a converted office building in Norwich without having planning permission.
• The developer had initially hoped to carry out the conversion under permitted development rules, which would have negated the need for formal planning permission.
• Norwich City Council requires official planning permission, which Bewick Homes Ltd is now seeking through a retrospective planning application.
• The council will consider the application on its merits and make a decision by September 8.
• If the application is refused, the developer could face enforcement action, including eviction of tenants and reversion of the building to office space.
• The developer could also attempt to appeal the decision, which may be a lengthy process.

Statistics:

• 24 apartments are currently rented out in the converted office building.
• The developer, Bewick Homes Ltd, has retained ownership of the building.
• The planning application is due to be determined by September 8.
• If the application is refused, enforcement action may be taken, which could result in the eviction of tenants.

Sources:

• "Developer forced to apply for retrospective planning permission for rentable flats in Norwich".
• "Bewick Homes Ltd has been forced to apply for retrospective planning permission (Image: Chaplin Farrant)"