Plans to convert Victorian leather workshop into apartments given green light

Plans to redevelop a former Victorian leather workshop in Northampton into much-needed starter homes have been approved by town council bosses.

Local entrepreneur Paresh Parmar intends to convert the site on Dunster Street into four one-bedroom apartments.

Permission to proceed with the project has now been granted after Marrons Planning provided expert advice on the application.

The scheme is expected to be completed next year.

The building is located in the town’s historic Boot and Shoe conservation area and was most recently used as a model supply shop.

It has lain derelict for the past two years.

Parmar says external works on the building will be fully in keeping with its surroundings.

Sachin Parmar, associate director at Marrons Planning, said: “This was a challenging application as we needed to ensure the plans would not harm the character or appearance of the environment, but in fact enhance them.

“Due to a lack of investment over the past few years, the building is plagued with water leakages and damp issues. However, what’s great about this development is that it’s answering the housing need, while making viable use of a run down, unused property. We look forward to seeing the conversion take shape!”

Paresh Parmar added: “We’re really pleased to have obtained planning permission for our next build. It’s well known that there is a shortage of good quality homes across Northampton and beyond, with young people in particular struggling to take their first step on the housing ladder.”