Plans back underway for new shop with café area in Chichester

Developers behind plans to bring in a new shop with a café area in Chichester have submitted a fresh application, requesting full planning permission.
South Street, Chichester. Photo: Kate ShemiltSouth Street, Chichester. Photo: Kate Shemilt
South Street, Chichester. Photo: Kate Shemilt

An application, submitted in December 2019, requested the change of use of the vacant site at 7 South Street from retail to flexible retail/café or restaurant use. The intention was to use the former clothing shop as a café/coffee bar with 'only minimal hot food offerings'.

However, Chichester District Council said a full planning application would need to be submitted before the plans were considered. Read more hereIn the newly released plans (20/00632/FUL), the applicant said the plans do not seek changes to the fabric of the non-listed building. It was also suggested that the hours of opening until 11pm on weeknights and Saturdays and until 10.30pm on Sundays 'would be reasonable'.

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The planning statement added: "It is considered that the change of use to a flexible A1/A3 would make a positive contribution to the vitality and viability of the high street and as such should be supported.

"7 South Street is currently vacant, and the property owners wish to promote the letting opportunities with a more flexible use.

"The number of vacant units has steadily risen within the city centre to a level which is detrimental to the character of the conservation area, having a serious impact on the vitality of the city centre.

"The proposal would make the best use of the existing unit, which has been vacant since February, on one of the main shopping streets within Chichester."

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