Vacant corner shop could become one-bed home

Monday 03 April 2023

An "underutilised" St. Helier convenience store could be converted into a one-bedroom residential unit, if Planning agrees.

The shop, on 26 Great Union Road, has been vacant since January last year, with the owner unable to find a replacement tenant.

In comments submitted as part of the planning application, PF+A Architecture architectural technician Jodie Carney said: "The property in its current state is underutilised, with mismatched, poorly insulated, rear extensions to both heat and sound.

"The surrounding properties, being predominantly residential, pose significant precedent for the change of use."

The application also stated that the property was in "close proximity" to competing convenience stores, with Aquila Stores and Columbus Street Corner Shop within a three-minute walk.

Ms Carney added that there had been "sufficient attempts" to fill the vacant shop, with the owner advertising the property between April and September last year.

She added: "The proposal facilitates this change further by enabling disabled access to the property and its neighbours, as well as facilitating bike travel further through the inclusion of secure bike parking and charging facility.

"The location is ideal for anyone commuting to work in town, as well as further afield, being so close to various localised public services, including the bus route and LibertyBus exchange."

The application, which has been graded 'major' by Planning, will be decided at a later date.