Bid to convert part of former East Sussex bank into homes approved
Plans to convert part of a former bank building in Crowborough into apartments have been approved.
Wealden District Council confirmed a change of use of the upper floors of the former Santander building at 4 High Street can move ahead under permitted development rights.
This would see the building’s first and second floors converted into two flats. Its ground floor would remain as a commercial unit.
National development rules allow for conversions to take place, as long as a local planning authority grants “prior approval”.
Council officers concluded the conversion would have “no adverse impacts that would warrant withholding prior approval.”
Crowborough Town Council had called on the district council to refuse permission.
In a statement submitted in response to the application, a town council spokesman said: “There is no objection in principle to the conversion. However, no design and access statement has been provided and therefore there is no clear indication of how vehicle parking and cycle provision are intended to be addressed.
“The town council is disappointed that the proposal does nothing to restore the building to an appearance more in keeping with the conservation area in which it is located.”
East Sussex Highways said parking provision could be addressed through conditions.
For further information see application reference WD/2026/0684/P25 on the Wealden District Council website.