An application put forward by Churchill Retirement Living to change one of the four empty retail spaces at Orchard Lodge into residential accommodation will be decided on appeal.
When the site was granted for Churchill to build the 39 apartment and 4 commercial unit development in March 2021, one of the stipulations of the planning inspectorate was to remove permitted development rights to safeguard the retail/commercial units.
In November last year, a change of use planning application was put forward by Churchill Living to make one of the empty retail units into another retirement apartment.
When the application came before Calne Town Council's Planning Licensing and Highways Committee, councillors at the meeting felt that Churchill had not adequately sought to market the commercial units within the development.
Cllr Michael Hudston said at the time: "The decision to sell unviable and expensive long leases rather than monthly rents means that an opportunity for small new businesses or expanding small businesses has not been fully explored.
"This loss of potential to provide new commercial/retail space in the town centre was part of the previous objection raised by the town council on behalf of residents."
In January Wiltshire Council refused the application over fears the loss of commercial space would 'adversely impact the vitality and viability of the town centre'.
Churchill Retirement Living has appealed this decision stating that despite being on the market for over a year, no offers have been made on the unit. Churchill Retirement feel that changing the empty retail unit to a retirement apartment would be 'far more beneficial' for Calne's town centre than a vacant unit.
A decision on the appeal will be determined by the planning inspectorate, any interested parties have until 17th September to have their say.
You can view the full application HERE
Want to know what’s on in Calne? Visit our local events page for listings and to find out how to add your own events for free.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.
Have you got a story for us? Email editor@calnenews.com or contact us here.
