Bunessan office given permission to become accommodation

Argyll Community Housing Association requested the change to be made at 5 The Flats in Bunessan, which also served as a communal area.

Only one representation was received by Argyll and Bute Council to the application, with Oban District Access Panel encouraging the applicants to adapt the layout.

A council planning officer said in a handling report: “Planning permission is sought for the change of use of an existing premises located in Bunessan from a common area and office to form a one-bedroomed residential flat.

“The application site comprises a ground floor premises set within a block of residential flats, sited immediately to the east of the A849 public road within the settlement of Bunessan. The surrounding area is characterised by a mix of both residential and commercial properties of varying scales and designs.

“This application relates to the change of use of an existing premises from a common area and office to a residential flat, where there would be no external alterations or additional built development.

“The proposed development would respect the character of the traditional use of the building whilst retaining its appearance. The building is capable of providing the proposed use without the requirement for works which would be detrimental to the character of the building.”

The report added: “The proposal, by virtue of its central location within Bunessan, would have direct and easy access to local facilities by a variety of sustainable transport methods, as well as being accessible by public transport.

“Whilst the proposed development does not propose any vehicle parking spaces, no objections have been raised from the area roads authority.

“The development is adjacent to, and well served by, good public transport and pedestrian links such that the site the subject of this application is in a location where there is sufficient sustainable transport modes to provide access to and from the application site.”