Former Natwest building in Tamworth could become flats and commercial units

In November last year plans for the former Natwest on Market Street, which closed in 2023, were approved by planning officers. At the time only two commercial units were planned with five flats.

Now the plans have come back reducing the number of flats but increasing the number of commercial units available. Currently only a beauty parlour is planned for the units. On the ground floor one five bed flat is planned behind the commercial units, with the further three flats on the second floor.

The development is within the town centre conservation area; despite the applicant attempting to address the negative features of the conservation area by shop front improvements and sympathetic redevelopment. The conservation officer states the ‘development would not lead to any particular enhancement to the character and appearance of the application building’.

Despite this the officer concluded: “Overall, the proposal would preserve the character and appearance and thus significance of the Tamworth Town Centre and ensure there are no adverse effects upon the significance of listed buildings located within the vicinity of the application site.”

The design and access statement said: “The proposed design converts the existing vacant building to a mixed use development of commercial units and residential flats. The commercial units are proposed on the ground floor facing the high street. They will help to animate the street scene and attract visitors to the area.

“The proposed development meets the demand for development of this type within the area, re-purposing and bringing life back to a vacant and abandoned building. Converting it into a mixed use development which offers diverse cultural commercial units lighting up the street scene. While also, creating four sizeable apartments within the heart of the town centre.”

The application is set to be determined later this year.