Paul & Esther, owners of the successful Northern Light Cinema in Wirksworth, were looking to secure planning permission for a change of use of their existing commercial space above the cinema to a residential loft apartment.

Babenko O’Boyle were approached to assist them with this process and also to provide structural engineering services for the follow on refurbishment works within the former Malthouse building.

Key challenges related to the existing building being a non-designated heritage asset within the Wirksworth Conservation Area and the impact of noise from the cinema to the change of use to residential. However, by discussing these concerns with the planning and conservation officers during the submission process, planning permission was achieved to the satisfaction of both the Client and the regulatory authority.

Paul Carr commented: ‘I have to say we were both delighted with the service we received from Tristan and Gabriel. They not only showed professional competence but took the time to explain issues and options in a way we could easily understand. They were always on time for site visits, worked to agreed costs, were very attentive to any queries and questions and showed patience when our plans changed over time. We’ll be using them again! Thank you both’.