Plans have been submitted to convert a the vaulted basement of a listed building into an office.
The application, submitted by Maddie Bowe, says the space under the rear of 7-8 Sussex Square would need comprehensive damp proofing.
It follows a similar conversion of the vaulted basement next door.
A design statement written by PMR Architecture says: “The site, The Mews, is a two bedroom property, formed within the lower ground and ground floor part of the rear additions of 7-8 Sussex Square, a Grade I Listed five storey terraced building located on the North Eastern corner of Sussex Square, within the Kemp Town Conservation Area of Brighton.
The existing condition of the vaults is exposed brickwork with concrete floors, with evidence of some damp and mould. The two vaults are accessed though a timber gate and the vaults are both currently used as external stores.
“The proposed development at The Mews, seek to follow a similar design intent to the neighbouring approved application, including the conversion of the vaults into habitable accommodation, achieved by providing an internal lining to the wall and ceiling for both thermal comfort and waterproofing, whilst insulating and raising the floor.
“The proposed development would follow a similar waterproofing detail, protecting the heritage asset, retaining the character and nature that the vaults provide, whilst ensuring that the vaults are suitable for twenty first century use.”
A change of use for the coal caller, Not the opening to the road/footpath above, Many of these old cellars also have the main drain exiting from the building to the sewer in the road. I have dug up a few when blocked. Only a fool would consider these suitable for an office. Storage yes, practicle office space, no.
Why does the council not also concentrate on the listed structures it takes care of, lots of them are in decay,