Grade II listed Tavistock building could become holiday let under new plans
Plans have been submitted to convert the vacant Grade II listed Bedford Chambers in Tavistock into holiday accommodation, with proposals focusing on retaining the building’s historic character
Plans have recently been submitted to convert a vacant Grade II listed building in the centre of Tavistock into holiday accommodation.
An application lodged with West Devon Borough Council seeks listed building consent for the change of use of Bedford Chambers in Bedford Square from commercial use to a holiday let.
Supporting documents show only limited internal alterations are planned, including the installation of a shower within an existing modern extension, while the building's historic fabric and external appearance would remain unchanged.
Bedford Chambers is currently vacant, with the building being most recently used as offices for a firm of accountants, having previously served as the Bedford Estate Office from the 1820s until the 1960s.
The applicant says attempts to find a new commercial tenant have been unsuccessful, adding that the property has remained empty despite "ongoing and sustained attempts" to re-let it.
Bedford Chambers occupies a prominent position in Tavistock, sitting next to The Bedford Hotel and opposite the Magistrates' Court.
The single-storey property also sits within the Tavistock Conservation Area, the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site and the scheduled monument area of Tavistock Abbey.
Because of its heritage status, listed building consent is required alongside the proposed change of use.
Bedford Chambers is described as an early 19th-century stuccoed building with a hipped slate roof, crenellated parapet and central doorway with a square fanlight.
A heritage assessment submitted with the application argues the proposal would preserve the character of the building, with no alterations planned to its exterior.
The statement also says bringing the property back into active use would help secure its long-term future.
Proposed accommodation at the property would include three bedrooms, a living and dining area, kitchen and bathroom facilities.
Two parking spaces would remain available at the rear of the property.
The planning statement argues the development would support Tavistock's visitor economy by providing additional accommodation for tourists and generating spending in local shops, restaurants and pubs.
The application is currently open for public consultation, with members of the public having until 2 July to submit comments to West Devon Borough Council before a decision is made.