New life will be breathed into a landmark Ellesmere building after proposals to create a restaurant in its basement and a number of flats were given the go-ahead.
Plans have been approved to convert the first and second floors of Rennet Works, Market Street, to provide eight flats and to create a restaurant in the cellar at a meeting of North Shropshire District Council’s development control committee yesterday, Wednesday.
The application was made by Colin Dyke of J C Dyke Supplies, a builders’ merchant and DIY store which is based at the site.
Permission was also granted to build a ground- floor extension to serve the existing business and to demolish existing outbuildings.
Agents Casely and Whale, from Gobowen, said the restaurant would be a useful addition to the community which should bring additional employment to the area.
Mr Dyke said at the time the plans were submitted: “The Rennet Works is a lovely old building. The cellar which is arched is quite big and full of character so it would be great for a restaurant.”
Committee members were advised to recommend the plans for approval which they did. The vote was nine in favour, three against.
The report said: “The upper floors are largely vacant and falling into a state of disrepair. The site is in a prominent position in the town and the building forms a landmark.”
The single-storey extension will link the two buildings to provide additional storage space for the DIY store which will continue to function.
Concerns had been raised by the Highways Agency over a lack of parking and potential conflict at the vehicular access.
Seven letters of representation had been received by the district council.
Councillor Jean Mainwaring said: The building does need repair, but I have concerns relating to how the construction traffic will be accommodated.”