TOWN councillors are demanding that planning conditions should not be changed on a property which has been on the market for more than 12 months. Developer Stephen Howard Homes has submitted a planning application to change a shop in Lower King Street, Ro

TOWN councillors are demanding that planning conditions should not be changed on a property which has been on the market for more than 12 months.

Developer Stephen Howard Homes has submitted a planning application to change a shop in Lower King Street, Royston, into living accommodation.

But when the development was carried out a condition imposed from North Herts District Council was that the property should be used as a shop.

Councillor Rod Kennedy said at a meeting of the town council's planning committee on Monday evening that there "cannot be a change of rules".

He claimed the property had not been marketed properly from the time it was built as part of the Stamford Yard development.

"The developers are really trying it on, and I trust the district council will refuse," he said.

He added that a change of use of the property would be "driving a coach and horses through planning conditions".

Councillor Robert Smith said he had "some sympathy" with the proposal and thought that a compromise may be to allow the building to be converted into an office.

A suggestion such as this may be considered by the district council.