Changing Upper Floors From Commercial To Residential Space.

For more than 30 years, our client had let this property in its entirety to a prominent high street retailer by way of a fully-repairing lease. Ultimately, the tenants decided to vacate upon lease expiry and the client decided to reassess their options within the current market. Whilst the traditional high street faces challenges, the demand for residential accommodation within central town locations has grown.

Our client, in consultation with ourselves, realised that value would be added and risk greatly reduced if they were to retain the ground floor as a lock-up shop and convert the two upper floors into quality self-contained apartments.

How We Approached It

Whilst negotiating the dilapidations settlement with the outgoing tenants, we worked with our in-house teams to design potential layouts, scopes of work and completed a feasibility study. These were then presented to the client who agreed they clearly demonstrated an excellent way forward.

How We Achieved It

With client consent obtained, we prepared detailed specifications and quickly ensured the project could proceed under permitted development rights. Work is now under-way and Berrys are instructed in all aspects of project management and contract administration.

We are marketing the shop unit via our Oxford commercial office and will work closely with local residential agents with a view to securing swift lettings of both flats, off-plan if possible.