New Year Could Bring Protections for Key Office Space in Windsor and Maidenhead
The protection of key office spaces in Windsor and Maidenhead is a crucial issue that has been brought to light by concerned residents and council members alike. The use of permitted development rights (PDR) to convert office buildings into flats has caused a significant loss of employment space in the borough, with around 32,000sqm of office floorspace being lost between 2013 and 2022.
One particularly contentious case was the proposed conversion of Mattel House in Vanwall Business Park into flats, which was met with opposition from councillors due to the potential loss of jobs. This case, along with others, has highlighted the need for stronger protections for key office spaces in the area.
The council has been working towards implementing ‘Article 4’ protections, which would remove PDR for select sites and help safeguard employment sites from further conversions into residential developments. In February, the council began consulting on Article 4 measures for 31 sites, including popular business parks in the area.
Now, it seems that these protections may finally come into force in January 2025. Planning officers are currently reviewing responses to a consultation from earlier this year, and a report will be brought to cabinet in the autumn. If approved, the Article 4 restrictions will be proposed to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government for final approval.
Councillor Adam Bermange, cabinet member for planning, governance, and asset management, stressed the importance of these protections in preserving much-needed business premises and jobs in the borough. Boyn Hill resident Andrew Hill, who raised concerns about the risks of not implementing Article 4 protections, welcomed the news as a step towards more sensible and holistic planning for the area.
In conclusion, the proposed Article 4 protections for key office spaces in Windsor and Maidenhead are a positive step towards preserving employment sites and attracting new businesses to the area. It is essential that these protections are put in place to prevent further loss of office space and ensure the continued economic vitality of the borough.