Plans submitted to turn former vet surgery into seven flats

The proposal, lodged with Portsmouth City Council, seeks prior approval to change the use of the vacant building at 251 London Road, North End, from a veterinary practice to homes.

Under the application, the former Harbour Veterinary Hospital would be turned into seven self-contained flats, with no external works planned.

The submission has been made under permitted development rules, which allow certain changes of use without the need for full planning permission, subject to council approval on specific matters such as transport, flood risk and living conditions.

Planning documents state that the site is in a highly accessible location, with good public transport links along London Road and nearby bus routes. Eight on-site parking spaces and cycle storage are also included.

A flood risk assessment submitted with the application says the site is at low risk of flooding, and no mitigation measures are required.

The developer also argues that all flats would meet standards for natural light and ventilation, with habitable rooms benefiting from windows and mechanical ventilation provided in kitchens and bathrooms.

Three two bedroom flats are proposed and five one-bedrooms flat over two floors ranging from 38 sqm and 77 sqm.

According to the supporting statement, the proposal would make use of a vacant building in a sustainable urban location, contributing to housing supply without changing the appearance or character of the area.

Residents can view and comment on the application using the planning reference 25/01432/PACOU.