A vacant town centre property in Thirsk could be transformed into a new bar under plans submitted to North Yorkshire Council.
The application seeks permission to change the use of 19 Market Place, formerly occupied by Joplings Estate Agents, into a wine and cocktail bar.
The proposal has been submitted on behalf of applicant Mehmet Babat, who already owns the nextdoor business, Bianco Ristorante.
Business location
According to planning documents, the scheme would include the creation of customer seating areas, installation of a feature fluted bar, toilets in the basement, and general refurbishment work throughout the premises.
The proposals do not involve any major structural alterations to the building.
The frontage would be repaired and repainted in Farrow & Ball’s Blue Stone colour, while a traditionally hand-painted fascia sign and four swan-neck light fittings would also be installed.
The lighting would only operate during opening hours and no internally illuminated signage is proposed, supporting documents say.
The property lies within the Thirsk Conservation Area.
Although the building itself is not listed, the design statement says a “conservation-led approach” has been adopted to ensure the development respects the historic character of the town centre.
Planning documents state that retaining and repairing the traditional timber shopfront, alongside the use of sympathetic materials and finishes, will help preserve and enhance the character of the conservation area.
Access would remain unchanged, with customers entering directly from Market Place.
An accessible toilet would be available through an internal connecting doorway to an adjoining restaurant.
Agents for the applicant say the proposal would make a positive contribution to the vitality and viability of Thirsk town centre by bringing a vacant commercial unit back into use.
