Application to turn house into therapy clinic in Chapel Street, Thatcham

A planning application has been submitted for the change of use of a house in Thatcham.

The existing residential house at 55 Chapel Street is hoped to become a one-bedroom flat and consulting rooms for a counselling service.

The flat would be on the ground floor with associated parking and amenity space.

The new flat would include a private garden area to the rear of the property with one parking space.

A further nine car parking spaces are proposed for the consulting rooms – one of which would be designated for disabled users.

A bike stand for five bikes to the rear of the property is also included.

No changes to the outside of the building have been proposed.

The applicant says it has seen a 700 per cent increase in demand in the past five years.

The applicant expects a maximum of five therapists and five patients would be on site at any one time.

The proposed consulting rooms will operate Monday to Friday between 9am and 8pm.

West Berkshire Council’s highways department has recommended the plans for refusal.

It said it is very likely that there could therefore be issues with the car park.

It says the lay-by opposite the site could be utilised.

It also said the access is of insufficient width for two cars to pass.

Old Bluecoat School charity made an impartial representation but said therapy clients may use the Old Bluecoat School car park.

It said this pressure will increase in the mistaken belief that the car park is for general use.

Thatcham Town Council raised no objection provided the concerns raised by the highways department are satisfied.

The application has received one letter of objection.

The plans can be viewed by searching 23/02509/FUL into West Berkshire Council’s online planning portal.