A PRIME retail unit in West Street, Haslemere, could switch to residential if a change of use to build 13 flats is approved by Waverley planners.

Changes in planning policy suggest it could already be a “done deal”.

West House next to Waitrose, which is currently home to Cycleworks, is set to become a mixture of 11, two-bedroom apartments and two, one-bedroom flats.

Stonegate Homes has submitted a supporting statement for the prior approval application for a change of use from office to residential, which says the town and country general permitted development order (GPDO) now allows for such a switch in order to provide new residential units in existing buildings.

“Development permitted is conditional on the applicant making a prior approval application to the local authority,” it states. “In determining the application, the planning authority can only consider highway, contamination and noise issues in respect of the change of use.

“The principle of development cannot be considered as the development is permitted by the GPDO.

The local planning authority has 56 days from the date of receipt to advise the applicant as to whether prior approval is required, or whether the application for prior approval has been granted or refused.

The notice adds: “It is our contention that prior approval is not required – or should the council determine that prior approval is required, it should be given.”