PLANS have been lodged seeking to convert a vacant Ellesmere Port shop into flats and retail space.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning department has received proposals for 2F Whitby Road in the town.

The site consists of a part of the former shop in Ellesmere Port, which fronts Princess Road to the north and Whitby Road to the east.

The applicant is looking to replace the existing shop front, adding an extension to the ground floor and first floor to increase the commercial space, while adding two self-contained flats to the first floor.

According to the design and access statement submitted with the plans on the applicant’s behalf by Diogel Architecture, the development will help improve the character of the area.

It states: “The property has been vacant and is in poor shape. The building is derelict and will benefit significantly from being refurbished and used. The property is close to the town centre, offering a range of goods and commercial services.

“The development will save the building from further decline and generate a new commercial and residential place for the surrounding area.

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“In addition, the proposal will improve the character of the area. The scale and nature of the proposal are appropriate to its location and demonstrate resource-efficient design.

“There wonʼt be any unacceptable adverse impact on occupiers of neighbouring properties. The proposed design doesnʼt affect the existing landscape.

“The site is close to public transport, local shops and services. There are no known insuperable physical or environmental constraints on the development of the land. Therefore, the proposal should be considered acceptable in principle.”

A lack of parking with the site is covered in the design and access statement which says there are other parking options and access to public transport nearby.

It adds: “The property is located in the commercial part of the city and does not provide parking on the site. However, there are parking arrangements opportunities in the area.

“The area also has several public parking options (the closest 70 m away). Princess Road and Whitby Road provide vehicle access. Many public transport options are available in the area.”

Council planners will make a decision on the proposals at a future date.