25 Market Street, Alton, GU34 1HA

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the development on the vitality and viability of Alton
• the living conditions of future occupants in relation to outlook, light, privacy, ventilation, heat and noise, and of occupants of the flats above in relation to noise
• designated heritage assets, including whether the development would preserve a Grade II listed building, or any of the features of special architectural or historic interest that it possesses, and whether it would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of Alton Conservation Area

What decided it

The appellant failed to demonstrate that the loss of retail use was justified by lack of demand, and the proposed dwelling would provide unacceptable living conditions and cause less than substantial but unjustified harm to the listed building and Conservation Area.

The modest social and economic benefits of providing new housing do not outweigh the unacceptable harm to the vitality and viability of Alton, the unacceptable living conditions of the proposed occupants, and the less than substantial harm to the listed building and Conservation Area.