A planning application has been submitted to convert the rear of the empty Baileys DIY unit on Stone High Street into a takeaway.
The plans – submitted by national planning consultants DPP – seek permission to sub-divide the building, creating a takeaway at the back. The area had previously been used by Baileys DIY, which closed earlier this year, as a storage area.
Details of the takeaway have not been revealed, although we have asked DPP the question. Opening times would be 11.30am to 11pm seven days a week.
The rear of Baileys DIY is an extension to the original Grade II listed building at the front. An independent heritage assessment completed as part of the planning application states that – although the building is in the Stone town centre conservation area – development of the rear extension will not impact on the “historic fabric” of the front of the building.
The front of the takeaway would face Christchurch Way, and there would be parking bays for three vehicles. The alleyway from Christchurch Way through to the High Street would remain accessible for pedestrians.
Rhian Lees, principal planner for DPP, wrote in a covering letter with the planning application: “The proposed change of use is considered entirely appropriate within the context of Stone town centre and will assist in maintaining and strengthening its position within the retail hierarchy.”
The owner of nearby Simply Petals florists – which opened recently – has objected to the plans. Daniel Rich wrote: “This business would be highly disruptive to mine and is within throwing distance of five other hot food takeaways. As a florist the smell and heat from a fast food establishment would ruin the fresh flowers. I am angry [if] the council adds another takeaway to an already overpopulated area of takeaways.”
Daniel also wrote that access from the rear for his business would be affected.
You can see the full planning application HERE, where you can also submit your comments on the plans.
3 comments
Terry Dabbs
Only three parking spaces, does that mean more cars parked in the high street.
Jamie Summerfield
It’s a good point, Terry
Barry Smith
Another one? Might as well change the town sign from “Stone – Canal Town” to “Stone – Takeaway Town”. Apart from anything else, if the rear of the premises is separated from the front, what chance will there be then of it ever being a shop on the High Street if there is no storage space?