Plans for new Hartlepool apartments in empty office buildings near Church Street

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to make the changes to the former offices at 17-19 Scarborough Street.

Submitted by Keith Jones, plans state the buildings would be converted into four apartments or bedsits.

A heritage statement submitted on behalf of the applicant states the development would have no negative impact on the Church Street Conservation Area where it is located, and would benefit the area.

It said: “The proposal to convert these properties into apartments and/or bedsits from its current use of commercial, will preserve the front facade in its entirety.

“These are important buildings within the redevelopment of Scarborough Street and Church Street.

“The alterations of the new development will have a minimal impact on the appearance, character and setting of the building, within the conservation area of Church Street.”

Plans also note the development will involve redecorating the front in the existing colour, black, to the approval of both the council planning and conservation officers.

It will also include replacement windows to the rear in either timber or uPVC to match the existing design.

A response from the council’s housing services manager confirmed they have no objections to the proposed development.

The proposals would be in line with the regeneration of Church Street and Church Square, which has seen millions of pounds of investment in recent years.

Plans have already been approved this year to convert former office sites at 6 and 7 Scarborough Street into a cafe bar and cocktail bar respectively.

Meanwhile applications have recently been approved to continue developments on Church Street itself, such as the scheme to convert the former Scarlets nightclub into a cafe and bistro, with student accommodation above.

Plans have also been approved this year to refurbish 15 Church Street, previously Mamma Mia’s takeaway, with a view to it being home to a new cafe or shop and two flats.

A decision is expected on the latest proposals by the council planning department next month.

To view and comment on the planning application visit the council’s planning portal online and search reference H/2020/0329.

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on Pools and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.