Plans to convert former Lancaster brewery offices into student flats submitted

Developer Inayat Munshi, based in Lancaster, has applied to convert the former offices at the junction of Moor Lane and Great John Street into five studio flats, two three bed flats, and three one bed flats.

The 18th Century, Grade II Listed building at 11 Moor Lane was initially constructed as a townhouse, but latterly has been used as a shop on the ground floor with offices above.

It also formed part of the Mitchells Brewery complex and was used as offices.

The application states: "The existing shopfront is in poor condition; however it is richly detailed and contributes to the general appearance of the building and the street scene.

"It is proposed to retain the shopfront as far as condition allows, with new timber elements replacing the decayed parts, repairing like for like.

"New sections of timber will be fitted, replicating the historic detail in the existing, and the whole shopfront re-painted."

It adds: "The building is within a Conservation Area and the described improvements and repairs are proposed to bring the building back into use whilst improving and complimenting the character of the Conservation Area...where historical features exist they are intended to be either incorporated into the interior design of the scheme with sensitive repair, or left as-is and concealed behind new construction.

"The impact is considered positive for retained and repaired elements, and neutral for elements to be recorded and concealed/protected."

The development will include the installation of replacement windows and roof lights, partial demolition of single storey outrigger and construction of bin store, bike store and boundary wall.

Lancashire County Council's Highways Department has no objections with the proposal, but said that parking around this particular part of the city was at a premium, and asked that no development should commence until details of covered and secure cycle storage facilities have been submitted to, and approved in writing by, the local planning authority.