Don’t you find developer ‘speak’ amusing?

In a report from developers looking to convert two floors above Lazeez restaurant on Sunderland Street they state the following:

“Due to the highly sustainable and accessible location of the site it is not considered necessary for future residents to own a car.”

Does that mean future residents will be precluded from owning cars – or their suitability for tenancy will be decided on their lack of motor transport?

The report continues: ”The absence of dedicated car parking will promote low levels of car ownership thereby promoting sustainable forms of travel and helping to minimise congestion and air pollution.”

That’s clever, car parking is a requirement for any new developments – but turn it around so that the lack of car parking actually benefits the environment.

“To further promote sustainable travel the scheme will provide 100 per cent cycle parking provision located on the ground floor of the building.”

This one is being increasingly used by developers who are unable to provide the necessary car parking demanded by planning regulations. Create a small area for each unit – just large enough for a cycle – and hey presto, you have a ‘sustainable’ (wonderful word) development.

Bailey Property Management has submitted a planning application for the conversion above Lazeez Indian Restaurant which will create six one-bed flats and eight two-bed flats.

The two-storey building sits on an island plot within Sunderland Street, Brook Street, George Street and Townley Street. The first floor operated up until recently as a gym which will be converted into six flats. The second floor will have six more flats and the third floor two.

Car parking is currently prohibited on Brook Street and Sunderland Street with Townley Street and George Street providing two-hour short stays only.

Developers have certainly done their homework describing the building as being built some time between 1938 and 1960. We’d suggest the former, 1938 as being more accurate.

Two previous applications to turn the first floor into flats have been approved by Cheshire East Council.

This application brings to mind an application for a similar development just around the corner.

This was described to planning officials, by the developers, as being ‘sustainable’ having the requisite bike store for each unit. The development was also described to the planners as being ideal for young families – despite there being nowhere for young children to play.

Inevitably permission was granted. Needless to say, when the development was completed the flats were promoted and advertised as being perfect for ‘young executives.’. Only a guess but we reckon none had bikes!

Representations can be made to Cheshire East Council until July 22 and a target date for a decision has been set for September 14.