An application has been submitted to turn vacant units into six flats in the heart of Twickenham.

Proposals have been put forward to convert a former yoga studio into six new flats of various sizes on top of Specsavers at 16–18 London Road.

On behalf of Mr Wheelhouse, JB Architectural Design Studio says in its design and access statement that the upper floors of the building are empty in what used to be the Yoga Bar.

The existing first floor of 16-18 London Road, Twickenham (credit: Planning application).

JB Architectural Design Studio explained: "Over the past decade, multiple tenants have failed to establish sustainable businesses, with repeated patterns of declining revenue, vacancy periods, and arrears.

"The most recent tenant was formally evicted due to prolonged non-payment of rent, leaving the upper floors vacant since early 2023."

An artist impression of the proposed balconies for the new flats (credit: Planning application).

A pre-application to Richmond Council confirmed that a conversion from the applicant would be acceptable if:

• The loss of commercial use is justified,
• There is a reduction in proposed units from seven to six to improve internal layout and daylighting, and
• The rear dormer infill is reduced in size.

JB Architectural Design Studio added: "This proposal therefore represents a logical and sustainable reuse, securing the building's future through sensitive adaptation while contributing six much-needed homes within a sustainable and sought-after town-centre location."

The proposed first floor of 16-18 London Road, Twickenham (credit: Planning application).

The plans aim to create three one-bedroom flats, two two-bedroom flats, and one studio.

Private amenity space would be provided in the form of rear terraces, courtyards, and balconies, with additional soft planting and screening introduced across the rear elevation to "enhance outlook," the applicant says.

An artist impression of the planned new flats in Twickenham (credit: Planning application).

The front of the building facing London Road will remain unchanged, with only minor fabric repairs to be carried out using matching brick and mortar.

To read the full application, click here.

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