Creasey’s plan for High Street expansion a race against time
WORK to expand Creasey’s in the High Street is expected to start this year, despite a last-minute planning hitch.
Plans for the multi-million pound investment were accepted by planners in 2020 but Covid delayed the start date for the work.
Permission was granted to convert the former HSBC Private Bank, which was owned by Creasey’s, and a residential flat, to retail, as well as an extension to the rooftop cafe and changes to the shop front.
The additional space would allow the shop potentially to feature hairdressing, nail bars and beauty rooms.
Improved access is another aim with the installation of a wheelchair-friendly elevator and escalators.
But planners requested recently that minor amendments to the original plans be put forward as a planning application.
‘We are against the clock a bit. I was surprised that planners wanted minor amendments to go through as an application,’ said Creasey’s managing director Jonathan Creasey.
The revisions would include changes to the Quay-side customer entrance to the building, putting a glazed door there and putting flood prevention measures in place.
‘We had to put our plans on ice for a bit while we figured out what was going on with Covid, but we’re hoping to start this year,’ said Mr Creasey.
While planners were initially concerned about the potential appearance of the listed building after the makeover was complete, they later stated that ‘the moderate-to-large impact on the conservation area could be offset against significant benefit to retailing, and to the town in general’.
It is hoped the refurbishment will encourage people to shop in Town.
Planning permissions are valid for three years before an applicant must make a fresh application, but if any work has started in that period, the application remains live.
