A WOKINGHAM town centre store could become a coffee shop if planning permission is granted.
Sandwich retailer Pret A Manger has submitted an application to Wokingham Borough Council.
It is hoping to take on the Bush Walk units that used to be clothing retailer Wallis, and in more recent times has been an extension of independent retailer Maison Rustic.
Pret A Manger is hoping to purchase the unit and its planning proposals have been submitted on its behalf by Savills Estate Agents.
One is in relation to consent for the installation of a non-illuminated shop front sign and two illuminated interior signs, the other is for interior and exterior alternations to the building – which is Grade II Listed.
The building, known as the Old Bull and Bush, is understood to have originated in the 15th century, extended in the 17th century and again extended and altered during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.
The internal plan proposes to remove the existing studwork walls which form changing rooms, a rear sales area wall, ceiling partitions and the flooring.
The firm would also remove a wall partition to reveal existing heritage features, including fireplaces, and the erection of new partition walls for back of house areas.
Externally, as well as the signage, the plan proposes to repaint the shop front and install new window vinyl.
The planning officer at Wokingham Society – a civic society focusing on redevelopment in the Town – Hazel Guile, said: “It is felt that this historic timber framed listed building does not lend itself easily to conversion to a coffee/sandwich shop.
“The proposed vinyl covering, blocking up of six windows in Bush Walk would have an adverse and detrimental effect on the attractiveness of the present setting.”
The proposals will now go before the planning committee for approval, after which Pret will decide whether to purchase the premises.
Wokingham Borough Council planning officer, Tariq Bailey-Biggs, said of the plan: “[…] the proposed alterations are unlikely to adversely impact the character of the area, the Conservation Area, the historic fabric of listed building or any neighbouring properties.
“Consequently, the scheme is considered likely to accord with national and local policy and therefore is likely to be acceptable.”
