Catherine Foley
7 Jan 2026
We were delighted to obtain planning approval for a change of use from Retail (use class E(a)) to a 2-bed Residential Dwelling (use class C3) in Maldon, Essex.
The Proposal
The proposed development was to convert the upper floors of a late 18th/ early 19th Century building from a retail unit to a dwellinghouse. Twenty years prior to our application, there had been two similar attempts to gain planning permission – both of which had been refused.
The Problems
The site posed a number of complex
constraints – most significantly that it was located within a conservation area on the edge of a newly formed Air Quality Management Area.
In addition to these constraints, there was considerable concern about how safely the building could be accessed from the carriageway which flanked the site.
The Solutions:
JADC Studio worked with the client and the case officers to come to a suitable proposal that would be deemed acceptable within the constrictions of the site’s location and also satisfy safety concerns.
Our client was determined to realise the potential of their investment by enhancing the beauty of the building and reviving the spaces. Unfortunately, the upper floors had not been used for well over 10 years and were falling into considerable disrepair.
As the floors were unsuitable for retail use, changing the function of the building was judged the best way to realise its value and so we decided with the client to refurbish the building to make it a beautiful and practical residential dwelling.
JADC Studio was entrusted with the design and planning consultancy. After gaining a full understanding the parameters within which to operate, Joshua Ayettey’s expertise in negotiation proved decisive in ultimately securing the crucial planning permission.
Summary:
We were delighted that the local authority noted that JADC Studio worked with them in a positive and proactive manner based on seeking solutions to problems arising from the planning application. Our proposal not only overcame these hurdles but also provided a sensitive and appropriate solution, allowing future residents to enjoy the beauty of this remarkable building.
The key services offered by JADC Studio to ensure the successful completion of this project were:
· Collaborative work with the client to attain the desired outcome.
· Promoting sustainability through the adaptive reuse of the historic structure
· Preparation of design drawings essential for planning permission
· A comprehensive loss of retail justification statement
· A detailed design and access statement, addressing local and national planning guidelines
Author: Catherine Foley