Shop conversion approved in Blackburn after heritage concerns.

The application contributes positively to the context of the listed structures.

A disused electrical shop in Blackburn’s town centre Northgate Conservation Area has been permitted to become a new restaurant, after metal cladding on the frontage was removed due to conservation concerns.

Siraj Patel hopes to take use of the property’s prominent location to attract consumers from adjacent offices and enterprises.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has granted him planning permission to transform the Northgate business under four conditions. However, Mr Patel’s original suggestion to utilise modern metal cladding on the shop front ran foul of the authority’s heritage consultant.

He stated, “I believe the current application site contributes positively to the setting of the listed buildings, despite its modern interventions.”

As previously discussed in the conservation area, while the removal of the existing non-original tiled cladding is welcome, the proposed replacement with modern metal cladding does not respond positively to the established materials and detailing that contribute to the setting of the listed buildings.

 

“Although the existing tile finish is not original, metal cladding would be a negative and noticeable addition and will be wholly out of context to the setting of the listed buildings, which would undoubtedly result in some visual harm.”

The report recommending permission by planning officer Jamie Edwards states: “Based on the aforementioned assessment, a new application for the store front improvements has been submitted.

The metal cladding has been totally removed and replaced with a black render finish on the exterior walls, which works nicely in this context. The fascia signs size and details have no visual impact.”

His report further states: “The application site pertains to an existing commercial premises located on the western side of Northgate in Blackburn town centre. It was once inhabited by an electrical bargain business, but is now unoccupied.

“The host property is a two-story, mid-terraced brick building with a slate roof.” The major elevation has been tiled and features a new top window and store front with roller shutters.

“The idea would also be consistent with policy, which wants to sustain the vitality and viability of Blackburn’s town centre and boost the nighttime economy.

Furthermore, the economic and environmental benefits of putting the site back into active use support the plan.”

The Urban Future Planning Consultancy Ltd’s supporting statement to Mr Patel’s application states:

“The applicant seeks to capitalise on the application site’s location within the town centre, and the proposed use would draw custom from the adjacent office, business, and retail provisions.

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