Policy HOU3 – Protection of existing residential accommodation

There is a general presumption in favour of the retention of residential stock for permanent occupation. Within an established residential area or fronting onto a city corridor outside of a designated centre, planning permission will be granted for the redevelopment and/or change of use of existing dwellings for other uses where: a. It is considered complimentary to surrounding residential uses and will not result in any adverse effects on existing residential amenity; or b. The proposal is for community infrastructure considered necessary within the residential area. In the case of the partial change of use of an existing dwelling, in addition to the above requirements the non-residential use should: c. Be subordinate to the residential use; and d. Provide a separate user entrance if public access is required. This will be subject to meeting all other policy requirements. The use of permanent residential stock as short-term holiday accommodation will be treated as a change of use and will also be subject to the requirements of policy HOU13.