New fish and chip shop moves step closer to Stratford opening
AN EMPTY building on Bridge Street moved a step closer to being back in use after initial plans to transform it into a chip shop and B&B were rubber-stamped.
The former Edinburgh Woollen Mill store was being eyed by The Chip Shed, a chain that already has an outlet in Warwick and a further two in the Cotswolds.
Planning and listed building consent applications for the change of use of the first and second floors from retail to hotel had been submitted to Stratford District Council and a decision was expected by 27th April.
However, it was only until last Wednesday (2nd November) that the plans were given the green light.
The district council said in their decision notice that this does not authorise the start of any work, which would need a separate planning application.
The Chip Shed’s interest in 27 Bridge Street would see the three-storey building, which is in Stratford’s Conservation Area, refurbished and restored.
On the ground floor there would be an eat-in restaurant and takeaway, while the upper two floors would be converted into six B&B bedrooms with en suites (three on each floor), accessed from a door on Bridge Street to the right of the restaurant’s entrance.
Other work that needed doing included adding toilets, kitchen spaces, realigning the staircase and installing walls on the top floors to create the bedroom suites.
The applicant’s heritage statement concluded: “Overall the proposals will result in the refurbishment and reuse of a currently unoccupied building which is showing clear signs of decay internally and is of a shabby and tired appearance externally.
“Its proposed use as a restaurant and takeaway is considered in keeping with the retail themes prevalent in this area and is in no way incongruous to the local character of the Conservation Area.
“A minor beneficial effect is recognised in the scheme representing an element of much-needed revitalisation of this area following the very negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the retail and hospitality industries.”