We have a 300sqm section of 3 small shops which we want to convert to residential townhouses. We are yet to engage with an architect. For the time being is it possible to get an indication if the address can be converted to residential use or would we need to engage with a professional and put an application in before we know?

Cheers.

rayonline_tm - 2021-05-13 15:03:00

First thing you should do is check the WCC district plan, to find out what zoning your property has, ie. residential, commercial, etc. Here's a good explanation about district plans, development, etc http://www.level.org.nz/site-use/district-plan-requirements/

ed65 - 2021-05-13 17:23:00

You could ring the Council and talk to one of their planning people for some advice. They can get a bit twitchy if it would mean demolishing a streetscape or if the shops were historic. I have seen this done though with a new build of residential above and a new shop below and it looks great.

shanreagh - 2021-05-13 18:19:00