| Topic: | Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Glisening Water Restaurant -Closed - Ferry Quays | |
| Posted by: | John Connelly | |
| Date/Time: | 14/01/13 13:43:00 |
| The insistence of planners in putting retail/commercial units on the ground floors of medium-high rise flatted developments is not just a Brentford problem but one that is prevalent throughout the UK. These vacant units just add to the problem of empty existing units on local high streets and shopping parades. When the developments are off the main road, like Ferry Quays, the insistence on commercial ground floor units is even more nonsensical. Adam is probably correct in saying that many of these units will end up being converted to residential. However, as they were not designed for this purpose they very often produce poor layouts. Whitton Road in Hounslow is an example of how large scale conversions of commercial ground floor units to residential can often produce poor and unsightly residential accommodation. It is not beyond the ablity of architects and planners to design new developments with good quality ground floors (and indeed basements where appropriate), and the reality of changing consumer behaviour needs to be reflected in planning policies. |