PLANS to turn a store room above an Evesham takeaway into a flat have been rejected over fears of the risk of “physical and psychological harm” to residents.

A retrospective application to convert the first floor above Papa Johns in Market Place into a two-bedroom flat had been submitted to Wychavon District Council.

But housing officers had major concerns over the scheme.

They said: “There is a lack of practical space in the kitchen and the lounge, as well as a lack of natural light and ventilation to the lounge and bedroom one.

LOCATION: Plans show the location of the takeaway behind the town hallLOCATION: Plans show the location of the takeaway behind the town hall (Image: Ordnance Survey)

“These deficiencies considerably increase the risk of physical and psychological harm/ injury occurring to the occupants whilst they go about their normal daily activities, therefore it is strongly recommended that this proposal is refused.”

Planning officers said future occupants of the flat would also have no “private outside amenity space” - but considered this acceptable because of the building’s town centre location.

“Notwithstanding this,” said planners, “as a result of the overall room layout provided within the accommodation, the development fails to provide satisfactory living conditions for any current or future occupiers.

“The accommodation is considered cramped in nature which falls short of the national space standards and habitable rooms lack natural light sources.”

Evesham Town Council had recommended the application be approved as long as there was adequate bin and cycle storage.

Conservation officers had said the work had no impact on nearby heritage buildings, which include Evesham Town Hall.