Mixed-Use Redevelopment
22–23 London Road, Tunbridge Wells
The Brief
DMP were approached by a returning property investment client requiring our professional services in connection with the part change of use and internal refurbishment of a mixed-use period building, located within the Tunbridge Wells Conservation Area.
At the time of instruction, the property comprised five floors fronting Tunbridge Wells Common, with the lower ground floor set below street level. The ground and lower ground floors were in commercial use, while the upper three floors were configured into a number of individual residential flats.
DMP Solution
DMP began the project with an initial client meeting to fully understand their requirements and long-term vision for the building. The client’s objectives centred on improving and extending the existing flats, with a particular focus on optimising the roof-level accommodation.
To progress the scheme, DMP surveyors carried out a comprehensive measured survey of the entire property, including the internal layouts, roof structure, principal elevations, and surrounding external areas. A full drawing package was produced, comprising existing and proposed floor plans, detailed front and rear elevations, and sectional drawings to illustrate the property’s relationship with adjoining buildings and external ground levels.
DMP also held design workshops with the client to explore the potential conversion of the ground and lower ground floors into additional residential units, together with the provision of new communal service areas. Alternative layout options were prepared, highlighting how these areas could be optimised to deliver further accommodation while enhancing building functionality.
Following the design agreement, DMP submitted a planning application to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Consent was secured for:
- Extended dormer windows to the rear roof slope.
- Provision of roof terraces for each of the roof-level flats.
- Internal remodelling across all floors to create modern, spacious layouts.
- New communal service spaces at ground floor, including bin storage, laundry, and general storage facilities.
- Replacement of external joinery to improve both appearance and performance.
- Conversion of the ground and lower ground floors to residential use.
Upon receipt of planning consent, DMP prepared a detailed Building Regulations package, including structural design, which was submitted to private Building Control. This enabled the client to invite competitive tenders from local main contractors.
As the building was to operate as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), DMP liaised closely with Kent Fire Brigade and Building Control. A number of fire safety challenges were identified due to the constraints of the existing structure, particularly regarding protected escape routes and emergency access. DMP worked collaboratively to resolve these issues while maintaining compliance with statutory requirements.
Throughout the project, DMP provided a watching brief, assisting the client at key stages to ensure the scheme progressed smoothly to a successful conclusion. DMP also discharged its statutory duties as Principal Designer under the Building Safety Act 2022 and Part 2A of the Building Regulations.
At project completion, DMP prepared and handed over a comprehensive Operations & Maintenance Manual (O&M Manual) together with As-Built drawings for client records.
Deliverables
- Architectural Design
- Measured Surveys
- Feasibility Studies / Development Appraisal
- Space Planning
- Planning Applications
- Planning / Design & Access Statements
- Building Regulations Application
- Principal Designer Role
- Health & Safety Files / Building Manuals
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