Application submitted to turn former William Hill shop into drinking establishment

A planning application has been submitted to convert the former William Hill shop on Church Street into a 'public house/wine bar or drinking establishment'.

If it does not become a bar, the application seeks to change the premises into a Class E development, that is, a retail, food and drink or professional services business.

If the proposal is approved, the bar or shop will be allowed to open between 9am and 11pm.

Internal renovations would be carried out by the future owner, with sound-proofing put in place for residents of the building's first floor.

No operator has been secured for the property to date, however, an expression of interest has been received from an established family-run independent micro bar company.

This development would not involve any external alterations to the building façade, but the left-hand side shop front window, previously let as a display area to the adjoining occupier, will once again be dedicated to the new establishment.

According to the application, "The [proposal] will therefore preserve and enhance the historic character of the conservation area."

William Hill closed in September 2019 and the shop was put up for sale in September 2020. A covenant placed on the property by William Hill means that the building cannot continue to be used as a bookmakers, meaning that a change of use is required.