AN application to open a branch of a popular bar/restaurant chain in the centre of Abergavenny could be blocked by planning chiefs who argue that the move would tip the percentage of food and drink outlets in the town above the regulation 25%.

Bristol-based chain, Lounges, with premises in Monmouth and Newport and over 100 nationwide, has applied to take over the empty shop on Frogmore Street formerly occupied by New Look.

The application stated the premises on two floors would be ‘Open all day when family, friends and local residents could meet, eat and drink in a comfortable environment. There would also be a variety of board games available with newspapers to read and a free neighbourhood book sharing facility.’

However, Monmouthshire County Council’s senior planning policy officer, Jill Edge has stated, ‘Such a change of use would be permitted provided that it would not result in the loss of retail units in prominent locations. A loss of such a prominent unit is contrary to the policy and could be detrimental to the

vitality of this shopping frontage.

Percentage figures are provided for the maximum proportion of non-retail uses that the Council considers appropriate. For this particular frontage in Abergavenny this figure is given as 25%. It is considered that a higher level of non-retail uses would dilute the shopping role. If this unit were to undergo a change of use the proportion would increase to 27%.’

‘Where a proposal fails to meet the criteria an exception may be considered if it can be demonstrated that the proposed use would not harm the vitality of the street frontage, or that the premises have been vacant for at least two years and genuine attempts at marketing the existing use have been

unsuccessful.’

Under the guidelines, the shop would have to be left vacant for another year and nine months before a change of use could be considered. Alternatively, the onus is on the applicants to demonstrate their new enterprise would, ‘Not harm the vitality of the street frontage.’

Acquisitions director of Lounges, Raj Manek, told the Chronicle, ‘We’re disappointed with the local council in this instance, as you know the case officer is recommending refusal as our application fails the policy test on the basis that the property hasn’t been marketed and remained vacant for 2 years.

‘They’ve indicated to us that the council has no other objections to the proposal and support the ideas of the company.

‘The landlord’s letting agents, Savills in Bristol, have provided a written statement to the case officer to evidence that there has been little or no demand from any retailers since they originally started marketing the property in March last year.

‘With the continued malaise hitting our high streets and the growth in online retail, it’s a poor show that a landlord who is unlucky enough to have a vacant property in Abergavenny will have to wait 2 years before the council will consider change of use.

‘Our understanding was that councils would be more pragmatic in keeping their high streets vibrant.’