Jewellers George Pragnell Ltd plans to take over the former Fraser Hart building on the corner of Wood Street and High Street
JEWELLERS George Pragnell Ltd looks set to expand once again in Stratford by taking over the former Fraser Hart building on the corner of Wood Street and High Street.
The grade-II listed building, which, before it was occupied by Fraser Hart was an Austin Reed store and will be remembered by older readers as Boots, is currently empty.
A planning application has been submitted to Stratford District Council to carry out work that would allow Pragnell to expand further – as well as its main outlet in Wood Street, the firm last year opened a store opposite specialising in high-end used and vintage watches.
The documents state: “Pragnell has continued to grow and is now looking to expand its presence within Stratford by expanding into 1 Wood Street. This will continue its long-term tenancy with Wood Street, Stratford.”
They add: “The proposed development to expand into 1 Wood Street will facilitate future growth of this significant local business.”
Little would be changed to the exterior of the Fraser Hart store – new signage and a new security door are proposed along with a new clock which would face towards the Bridge Street roundabout.
Inside partitions would be used to create office space on the ground floor and a customer toilet, while a staff toilet would be built in the basement. Stairs to the first floor would be removed.
SDC has until 6th May to make a decision in the planning and listed building consent applications.
