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£1m plan to convert empty Stratford unit into new café/bar




A NEW café/bar is being planned for an empty unit in the centre of Stratford.

Bristol-based company Loungers UK is applying for permission to convert the former Laura Ashley shop on Bridge Street.

Planning documents state that the firm will invest about £1million turning the ground floor into a food-led venue, adding a new kitchen, bar and toilets.

Lounge venues can be found across the country. (59483135)
Lounge venues can be found across the country. (59483135)

The company has more than 200 sites in England and Wales operating under two brands, The Lounges and The Cosy Clubs.

The new Stratford venue would fall into the former brand, and would be called Prospero Lounge.

According to the company website, each Lounge has a unique interior and combines elements of a restaurant, British pub and coffee shop.

The company says its venues are aimed at attracting locals.

“The aim of every Lounge is to tie in with local customers so that they can make of the Lounge what they will; whether a customer wants to come in for a coffee after dropping off children to school, a working lunch or a tipple after work,” the firm states.

And it adds: “As well as these everyday activities, each site will be tied in with local charities and initiatives. For example, during the pandemic, a number of Lounge sites opened up to make food packages for local shelters and schools. Also they run reading groups, young mums’ support groups and Christmas initiatives.”

The Bridge Street venue is expected to create about 30 jobs.

However, one problem the company may face is how to create a café/bar on the ground floor of a building when the first and second floors and the rear are being converted into nine apartments.

Permission for the apartments was granted by Stratford District Council in May.

Environmental Health officers have raised concerns about the potential noise impact on the apartments which could be caused by a planned extractor system.

Warwickshire is already home to the Lounge brand – there are venues in Rugby and Nuneaton, and also in Solihull.

The last financial year, to April 2022, was a record year for the company, according to its annual report, with sales of £237.3m and 27 new sites opened.



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