A planning proposal has been submitted to convert a Hitchin piano shop into a three-bedroom house.

The Grade II-listed building at 94 Tilehouse Street home to Richard Reason Pianos store, with plans also set to impact neighbouring 94a Tilehouse Street.

The application was submitted by Brent Smith Associates on Thursday, August 8, and include internal alterations to turn the existing building into housing, including three bedrooms two en-suite bathrooms, a wardrobe and two shower units on the first floor. 

External alterations include a new rooflight and a lightweight material railing.

The first floor plans for the piano shop.The first floor plans for the piano shop. (Image: Brent Smith Associates)

An internal garden area will also be constructed at first floor level with a conservation area style rooflight.

The original showroom and shop floor will reside next to a new living space including a kitchen, dining room and study.

In a consultation, Waste and Recycling Services managers said that they were “unable to approve” the application as it was “unclear” from plans how the bins would be accessed by waste service crew.

In support of the application, Brent Smith associates said: “The owner now wishes to concentrate on tuning without the overhead of the showroom and workshop, therefore a new use needs to be found for the building.

“Neither the Listed Building or its setting will be compromised by the changes and the change of use will provide a sustainable use to secure the future of the building.”

The consultation period has commenced and will expire on September 4.

To view the full application, visit North Herts Council's planning portal by searching for 24/01624/LBC.