Axis Architecture has just won a planning appeal for changes to their own property.
The directors purchased 'The Old Post Office' in September 2009 as a potential new studio for the practice and in October 2009 applied for planning permission to change the use of the existing building from retail (Class A1) to business (Class B1).
Winchester City Council refused this application but did approve a subsequent submission to change part of the premises to 'professional services' (Class A2) use, but retain some of the ground floor as retail space. This approval allowed Axis to move from Portsmouth to Wickham and start offering architectural services from this beautiful market town.
To secure the practice's future in Wickham, allow for expansion and full practice facilities, it was necessary to secure the remaining retail space for business use, so the practice embarked on an appeal to the Secretary of State against the original planning refusal.
With the assistance of Chris Ward of Brian Jezeph Consultancy, planning consultants, an appeal was launched in June 2010. The director's were very impressed with the thorough statement of appeal prepared by BJC.
Director Chris Cook commented "Winning the appeal means a lot to us and fulfils a long held dream of establishing the practice in its own premises, in a beautiful and inspirational working environment such as Wickham and the Meon Valley. The practice and ultimately our Clients will benefit from this success".
CCC Oct 2010