A former bank building in Wolverhampton city centre is to be turned into a bar, city council planners have agreed.
The Edwardian Grade II listed old Midland Bank premises in Lichfield Street – next to the city’s art gallery – served as a bank for decades and was listed in 1975. It was first converted into a bar and coffee house more than 20 years ago but has most recently been occupied by clothing retailers Diffusion.
Diffusion recently announced its decision to vacate the premises, and an application has been made to the council by Nathan Thaker of Wolverhampton-based SJE Leisure Ltd to turn it into a ‘sui generis’ bar.
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City council bosses have now granted listed building consent and given permission for the development to go ahead. Sui generis status means a venue is a use beyond classification and does not benefit from any permitted development right to move to any other use.
In a statement submitted alongside the application by ASP Consulting – the agents acting on behalf of SJE Leisure – Mr Karan Singh said: “The works relate to internal layout changes only with the aim of adding a vibrant new location to the area, providing a new addition to Wolverhampton’s nightlife.
“The proposal is for a bar, DJ stage and several booths. The changes are not extensive and are primarily focused on adapting the existing venue to suit the new use. This development should help to promote the local area whilst retaining an iconic city centre building.
“No external changes are proposed to the building, and it is anticipated the bar will support the area, providing jobs and creating a new, vibrant location for the city."
He added: “Moreover, a University of Wolverhampton campus is located not far from the site and it is expected to be a popular attraction for students.
“Furthermore, the addition of a unique bar is expected to support the local economy, providing additional footfall to the area. The locality to bus stops, stations and train routes indicate that the increase in visitors to the area should not hugely impact traffic in the area.
“Supporting this, directly in front of the proposed bar is a taxi rank layby which is expected to be used, thereby preventing interruption of traffic on the main road.
“The local area features a number of eat-in and takeaway restaurants, and as a result of this it could be suggested that it would be unlikely for another retail unit to be able to use the vast space available at Lichfield Street. A bar is likely to benefit the surrounding businesses and positively impact its environment,” said Mr Karan.
“The change of use is driven by a need to add a new night-time venue to the city centre, providing students, tourists and local residents with a new location to enjoy."
