Proposals to add an additional storey to a block of flats in Ashford have been submitted to Spelthorne Borough Council, with developers seeking permission to create six new homes above an existing residential block.
What is proposed
The application covers works to Imtech House on Woodthorpe Road, a building that was converted from offices into residential accommodation following a 2016 change of use. The block currently contains 50 one-bedroom apartments, and the scheme would add a further floor providing:
- four one-bedroom flats
- two two-bedroom flats
The proposed new storey would be finished in white render to match the current fourth-floor appearance, with grey roof materials chosen to align with the existing roofline. No additional car parking spaces are proposed, though the developer has indicated provision for 20 extra cycle spaces.
Background and council advice
Documents lodged with the council say a pre-application enquiry previously sought permission for two extra floors but that level of uplift was not supported by planners. The submitted application therefore reduces the proposal to a single additional storey.
“The pre-application was for an additional two floors which was not [to] be supported. The submitted application is for one additional floor which would be level with the existing lift shaft ridge.”
Consultation and next steps
A neighbourhood consultation on the application is open until 19 August. At the time of submission the council record showed three objections had been lodged. Spelthorne Borough Council has a statutory determination deadline of 17 September.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Site | Imtech House, Woodthorpe Road, Ashford |
| Current units | 50 one-bedroom apartments |
| Proposed additional units | 6 (4 x 1-bed, 2 x 2-bed) |
| Parking | No new car spaces proposed; 20 extra cycle spaces |
| Consultation closes | 19 August |
| Decision deadline | 17 September |
The application highlights familiar tensions in suburban Surrey between increasing housing supply and the character, infrastructure and parking pressures that concern neighbours. The absence of new vehicle parking may be noted by objectors and councillors alike given Imtech House's previous life as an office building and its conversion to residential use.
Residents wishing to see the full submission or make representations should consult the Spelthorne Borough Council planning portal before the consultation deadline. The council will consider any comments received before determining the application.
Freddie Marshall, InfoRadar Surrey correspondent.
