APE Properties appeal after NFDC turns down plans to turn Blackfield Baker shop building into flats

PLANS to extend a shop in Blackfield to create two one-bedroom flats will be decided on appeal.

APE Properties applied to New Forest District Council to make the alterations at 139 Hampton Lane.

The work included adding a single-storey side and rear extension as well as changing the use of the ground floor from retail to residential use.

New Forest District Council turned down the application on the grounds it would result in the loss of an occupied shop that provides for “everyday community needs”.

It added there had been no “suitable or appropriate” evidence to show the marketing of the site had been carried out in the previous 12 months to demonstrate the continuation of the existing use was not commercially sustainable.

The appeal will be decided on the basis of written submissions sent to the planning inspectorate by 17th July.