Plans lodged for new business hub in Elwick Road to help 'boost the economy' in Hartlepool

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to convert the Beechlands residential property in Elwick Road into the six-office hub.

The plans, from applicant Mr Maas Shaheen, state although end users are not confirmed for all offices, ideas are already being lined up for who will occupy the spaces.

It is currently envisaged that at least four of the offices would be occupied by branches of igomove, an online estate agency.

A planning statement, submitted on behalf of the applicant, states the business hub would host eight full-time and two part-time staff and benefit the area.

It said: “The proposed development delivers a series of economic, social and environmental benefits.

“The proposed development will assist the local authority in boosting the economy through the creation of jobs without significant impact upon the vitality and viability of the existing retailing centres of the borough.

“The proposed development will not result in a detrimental impact upon amenity of neighbouring land users or the character of the area in general.”

Igomove currently has separate branches for Hartlepool, Teesside and Durham, with further franchises for Sunderland and Darlington expected to open soon, and all would run from the property.

The branches are separate businesses in terms of operation, but would benefit from being able to share IT, admin and support staff and meeting rooms, according to plans.

Documents also state an online financial adviser or mortgage broker could be located within one of the offices, which would offer a ‘complementary use’ but consist of a separate business.

The public would not be able to visit the businesses, with all operations being online other than in “exceptional circumstances”.

The site would feature 15 car parking spaces, up from the eight it houses currently, and the businesses would be open from 9am until 6pm Monday to Friday, according to planning documents.

The site would also feature, along with the six office spaces, shared storage, a data room, a boardroom, kitchen, WC and reception.

A decision is expected to be made on the proposals by the council planning department later this month.

To view and comment on the planning application visit the Hartlepool Borough Council planning portal online and search reference number H/2021/0120.

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