Macham Investments Ltd have published plans to redevelop the ugly One Stop site at 9 Tower Street (16/04032/FUL). This site needs developing, though I am concerned that the company could be trying to cram too much onto the site.
The plan is for a retail unit or café on the ground floor with 10 apartments on the first floor. Above those will be two floors of offices. A ground floor annex will also house offices.
Buildings can only be used for specific uses set out in national planning rules. This rather antiquated and inflexible systeem is based on Use Classes.
The current planning permission for 9 Tower Street is for a shop (Class A1). Macham plans to broaden the potential uses of the building to Class A1 or A3 – restaurant or café. It is not applying for Class A4 – pubs and bars. That kicks into touch the rumour going around that this will be a Wetherspoon pub (see other Wetherspoon rumours). Macham could always be a later application for a further change of use to a pub or bar, but that would require another planning application.[1]
I would like to hear the views of residents and conservation specialists before commenting on this scheme. I think the development is rather crowded but I would like to see this site redeveloped.
Should this scheme be granted planning permission, a major priority will be to secure the future of the post office.
Notes
[1]. Some changes of use are allowed without planning permission under permitted development rights. These rights do not include converting a café into a bar or pub.
I agree that the Post Office is a major consideration. The preservation of the old gaol wall, with a suitable plaque there bearing information, as elsewhere in the town, must be assured.
It’s a pity that another eating place is proposed, when there’s plenty that we haven’t got, like a comprehensive crafts and haberdashery outlet, or a substantial shoe shop. Our access to electrical goods and modern technology is limited too. Could we buy a DVD player here?
What a grand plan. At last this ugly building that faces anyone coming up from the long stay car park will be gone. What a hideous welcome to Ludlow this has been .
however , try to conserve as much of the old walls as possible ie the old fire station and goal.
BUT what about the Post Office.. we DO need a post office in town. The one at East Hamlet will not be able to cope if the town one closes.
Can not understand how the post office has not been a party to these developments !!! ???