New look planned for Whitchurch town centre shop

The plans are for 10 Green End and involve alterations to the shop frontage to create pedestrian entrance, the installation of staircase to serve the first floor apartment, the installation of replacement windows and door and internal alterations to subdivide ground floor retail unit into two units.

The shop is the former home of M&Co Home but was recently converted to Moo and Boom, a new venture focused on upcycling and wellbeing.

The proposed application will see three new windows installed to the rear of the property, with one of the windows obscured. An external door will also be introduced to the front for access to the upper floors.

The application is currently pending approval but Shropshire Council's Historic Environment Development Services has made recommendations.

On her report into the plans, conservation officer Ruth Hitchen made some recommendations regarding the construction.

In her report, Ruth wrote: "The flat entrance should not involve the removal of the existing pilaster on the east side of the entrance and would suggest that an alternative is sought.

"The proposed alteration may also have an impact on the decorative cornice detail to the shopfront fascia in terms of structural support.

"The alterations need to be assessed in terms of structure and a solution sought which retains the existing pilaster and preferably includes the introduction of a second matching pilaster to the flat entrance."

Ms Hitchen also shared minor concerns over the use of UPVC windows but accepted that if done correctly they would be acceptable.

"Generally the use of UPVC is resisted in both conservation areas and historic buildings, the type and detail are the key to acceptability," she added.

"It is suggested that any UPVC windows proposed to the rear should be flush fitting and of a good overall quality."

For more details, head to https://pa.shropshire.gov.uk/online-applications and search 21/00516/FUL