London | Warrington
Unit 5B, Riverside Trading Estate – Full Planning
Sui Generis Change of Use for Pet Crematorium
April 2024
Client: Gentle Paws Pet Cremation
Architect: Randle White
Overview
Nuko Planning secured full planning permission for the change of use of Unit 5B, Riverside Trading Estate, from light industrial use (formerly Class B1(c)) to a pet crematorium (Sui Generis use). The unit, a single-storey warehouse of approximately 200 sqm, is situated within an established industrial estate with direct access from Station Road.
The proposal involved minimal physical alterations, limited to the installation of an external flue at roof level. The change of use facilitates a new pet cremation service aimed at supporting the local community while ensuring the continued commercial viability of the unit. Given the wider estate's mixture of light industrial and storage uses, the proposed operation was considered compatible with the surrounding context.
Challenges
A key concern during the application process was demonstrating that the crematorium would not generate harmful emissions, noise, or odour that could impact neighbouring businesses. To address this, local environmental consultants were appointed to provide specialist evidence confirming the safety and appropriateness of the burner system to be installed.
Outcome
Planning permission was granted on 16 April 2024. The business is now on track to commence operations in September 2025, bringing a new community-oriented commercial use to Riverside Trading Estate.
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