A planning application for seven flats on the site of the former Hawkins department store in Hitchin has been given conditional permission.

North Herts District Council made the decision on the Bucklersbury site following an application lodged by Majd Albayati Sarav Ltd.

Hawkins closed two years ago after 155 years of trading.

Here are the full details of the planning application:

Description: Proposed change of use of ground floor of former department store (Class A1) into commercial space providing flexibility of use between Class A1, A2 and A3 uses together with Class B1 office and residential use (Class C3).

Part change of use to provide seven residential units (Class C3) on ground and first floor. Retention of two existing residential units as first and second floor.

External alterations including courtyard entrance off Bucklersbury, reinstated courtyard behind and creation of first floor paved courtyard Section S73 application

Decision: Conditional Permission || Decision Date: 22/09/2020 || Application No 20/01424/S73