Former Paignton solicitors’ offices to become flats

Former solicitors’ offices in the centre of Paignton could be changed into homes.

Former solicitors’ offices in the centre of Paignton could be changed into homes.
The upper floors of the building at the top of Victoria Street have been empty for 10 years, and Torbay Council’s planning committee will debate a proposal to turn them into a dozen flats.
Using the ‘brownfield’ site would help the council meet its housing targets as well as fitting in with the move towards having more people living in the centre of town.
Planners believe that could rejuvenate run-down town centres like Paignton.
The applicants are Kent-based developers 1stavenue, which says it specialises in new-build apartments and has undertaken recent projects in London.
The ground floor of the building is a Boots store, and the whole structure is designated as a ‘key building’ in the Old Paignton Conservation Area.
The front of the building facing Victoria Street dates from between 1870 and 1904.
Only one objection has been received to the proposal, which officers are recommending for approval when the planning committee meets next week.
As a condition, the developers will have to pay £1,620 towards wildlife conservation at Berry Head.
An officer’s report to the committee says: “It will provide much-needed housing in a sustainable location, compatible with the wider commercial and upper floor residential character of the area.
“The loss of office space is not objected to where it is replaced with housing and where there is a critical need for housing.”