Fresh plans submitted to transform a former South Shields guest house into flats
A fresh bid has been submitted to transform a former South Shields guest house.
Developers are making a fresh bid to turn a former South Shields guest house into residential accommodation, just months after controversial plans for a 14-bedroom HMO were thrown out.
The latest proposals for the former Mill Dam Guest House, close to the Grade II-listed Customs House, would see the building converted into six self-contained flats.
The application comes after an earlier scheme to create a large house in multiple occupation (HMO) was rejected by South Tyneside Council following opposition from residents, councillors and South Shields MP Emma Lewell.
New plans submitted
Although the new plans would provide a similar level of residential accommodation, each flat would have its own kitchen and living space, rather than the shared facilities associated with an HMO.
The proposed mix includes four one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom flats.
An accompanying heritage, design and access statement says the development would “preserve the heritage significance of the area while providing high-quality, managed accommodation”.
The application argues that reusing the building would “ensure ongoing maintenance and positive contribution to the conservation area”, while new heritage-style windows would improve its appearance and thermal performance.
To the rear of the property, a new secure cycle store and screened bin storage area would be provided, while existing parking arrangements would remain unchanged.
‘Bring a vacant heritage property back into beneficial use’
Those behind the scheme say the proposals would bring public benefits by “reusing and maintaining the building, improving housing choice, and enhancing the local streetscape”.
The heritage, design and access statement adds: “The proposed conversion of 97 Mill Dam to six number flats will bring a vacant heritage property back into beneficial use while preserving its contribution to the Mill Dam Conservation Area.
“The limited external alterations are sympathetic in scale and appearance, ensuring no harm to heritage significance.
“The scheme meets policy objectives for heritage conservation, good design, and sustainable reuse.”
A decision on the application is expected following a consultation.
For more information, visit South Tyneside Council’s planning portal and search for reference 260657.
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