A Positive Close to 2020

It has been a very busy run up to Christmas with a large number of planning approvals for clients.

One of the simplest, but most satisfying, of the recent consents has been a change of use for the Grade 1 listed Market Cross. This is an important building in the centre of Bury St Edmunds. It was designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam. The first floor has been empty for some time and we have been working with the letting agents to find a new use for the building for several years. The constraints of a Grade 1 listed building made the building unsuitable for many people.

We have now gained consent for the first floor of the building to be used as an arts, performance and fitness studio. Given the severe problems faced by town centres as a result of the pandemic, it is important that such an historic building is continued to be used and enjoyed by as many people as possible.

There have numerous changes to the planning rules that govern the reuse of commercial premises and more are planned in the new year. We have significant experience in this area and are always happy to discuss new projects.

We wish all our clients a happy and prosperous new year.