4 Grand Parage (Shopfront)

Client: Everest Convenience Store Ltd 
Local Planning Authority: Crawley Borough Council

Squires Planning were instructed to advise Everest Convenience Store Ltd on necessary consents and permissions to move into a vacant unit on Grand Parade in Crawley. As part of moving in they wanted to install new signage and roller shutters. 

Our role began with a detailed review of the site’s planning history. We identified that the previous occupier operated as an insurance broker, which falls under Use Class E (Commercial, Business and Service). As a convenience store also falls within the same use class, we were able to confirm that no planning permission was required for the change of use. However, we advised that advertisement consent would be needed for the proposed signage, and that planning permission was required for the external roller shutter.

As the property is located within the High Street Conservation Area, careful consideration was required to ensure the proposals respected and enhanced the area’s historic significance and character. We provided input into the design to ensure the signage was sympathetic to the setting while remaining visually effective for the business.

Following discussions with the Conservation Officer regarding an external shutter and its potential visual impact, we advised our client that an internal roller shutter could meet their operational needs without requiring planning permission, a solution the client was happy with.

For the application for advertisement consent, we prepared a comprehensive Supporting Statement demonstrating compliance with the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007. The statement addressed relevant Crawley Borough Local Plan policies on design, impact on the character of the area and heritage, as well as considerations around public safety. After a few minor refinements to the design, the signage was approved under delegated authority, allowing Everest Convenience Store Ltd to move forward.

If you’re looking to open a new commercial unit and are unsure which permissions you may need, our experienced team can help you navigate the process efficiently and effectively. Get in touch to see how we can help.

The project team comprised Squires Planning and Brighton Lease Plans.