A CARLISLE apartment could be converted back into a shop if the plans for the change of use are approved by Cumberland Council.
The planning application is for an address in Abbey Street and property is described as a 'very small' flat in the document.
It proposes that metal grills on the windows would be removed, the broken front door would be replaced with one made from wood and glass, and there would be sign writing on the front of the building.
According to a planning statement the applicant is hoping to open an interiors and antiques shop at the property and the report states: “I have previously
worked in my parents' antique [business] and have a passion for restoring and bringing back into use old houses and furniture.”
The report states that the site is towards the Castle end of Abbey Street, just over halfway down on the left-hand side opposite the Salvation Army building, and it adds: “It forms half of the ground floor of 19-22 Abbey Street. It was previously a shop and was one half of TP Bells Cycles. I believe the two shops made up Bells Cycles.”
According to the report, the other shop is the Mallin Models and the previous change of use from a shop to the flat was in 1995.
The application states: “I intend to remove the grills that are permanently on the front window. This will greatly improve the streetscape and be more attractive for Foxes coffee shop next door.
“There is no proposed layout change other than removing a small modern partition wall which was built so that a kitchen could be added. The glass
above the front door was broken and replaced with hardboard.
"The proposal is to use glass again. It will have the number 20 added in gold lettering.”
It is proposed that there would be no landscaping and the change to access to the building. The report states: “The front door which matches the front door at the model shop will be restored and the two upper panels which have been broken will be replaced with glass to allow me to see who is at the door and this will match next door and be more attractive than it currently is.
“There is one step which will make it inaccessible for some wheelchair users but not all. A doorbell will be fitted if anyone wants me to bring things to the door for viewing.”
Crime prevention measures would include the installation of an intruder alarm system and there would be CCTV within the shop. The report states: “There will be locks on the rear sash window. The bathroom window is non opening.”
The applicant claims that the development would have a positive impact on conservation area and the report states: “The proposal will only improve the building as currently very dilapidated, covered in stickers, with ugly grills, a broken door and generally looking shabby and run down. It is detrimental to Foxes café and to the street.”
The application is currently being considered by planning officers at the council.
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