We continue to gain national planning success, expanding our operations and expertise beyond the North East of England.

Representing Panther (VAT) Properties Plc, Sean Hedley and the team have got the green light for a £22 million regeneration of an historic part of Peterborough. The move now heralds the development of a mix of 125 apartments, retail and commercial units, transforming the former Beales department store into an exciting modern residential and business quarter.

Overcoming local opposition, success signals the start of regeneration of a key city centre location with a scheme that seeks to sustain the character and significance of the locally listed building within the setting of a conservation area.

Contemporary designs will see the sensitive conversion of a number of Victorian buildings – the home of the former department store until its closure earlier this year – into modern new homes and flexible, high-quality workspaces. A ground floor cafe is also on the cards together with new shops.

A number of the apartments will be located in a purpose-built four storey building that will wrap around local streets with the remainder of the apartments accommodated in a new six storey building.

Sean Hedley said: “Our plans acknowledged enhancements to the significance of the local character and heritage in a conservation area to provide much needed city-centre-based homes.

“We always want to see heritage projects that deliver a long-lasting legacy as planning specialists. This includes making a valuable contribution to client plans and design ambitions, reducing the likelihood of objections on heritage grounds. This helps to transform our listed buildings and historic properties for generations to come.”

Jack Bispham, joint head of property for Panther (VAT) Properties, thanked Sean and the team for getting planning approval across the line, and added: “We are delighted with the committee’s decision to approve our application. This is a redevelopment of a key site in the city which is in dire need of significant regeneration.”