Building on Somerford Road could be turned into pet shop and vets surgery

The derelict building along Somerford Road has been targeted by vandals over the years and fallen into disrepair.

Now, a planning application has been lodged with Christchurch Borough Council to turn it into a pet shop and associated vet surgery.

The retailer has not been revealed in the plans, but the applicant listed is Bestminster Ltd, based in New Milton.

The company lease and operate real estate according to Companies House.

In a planning statement included with the scheme, agents Chapman Lily Planning say they want to change the permitted use of the ground floor to retail and make alterations to the outside and create a car park of 12 spaces.

The site has been chosen due to 'its prominent location on Somerford Road' and its size, says the statement.

"The store will be similar to other pet shops found in the local area, examples of which can be seen at the Wessex Gate Retail Park, Castle Lane West and Christchurch Retail Park", it adds.

The applicant also believes there is a "strong potential customer base" for this new store.

"The format and size of the store will mean that it is able to stock a wider range of goods than might be found in smaller and more traditional high street pet shops."

The statement also says: "Bringing the building back into a viable commercial use is important as the site presently makes no contribution to the function of the employment area whatsoever, and has not done so for some years."

A retail assessment says the proposed store is not intended to compete with the town centre.

And in a site visit to Christchurch town centre in May, it was concluded that "there were

relatively few vacant units, indicating that the town centre is in good health."

In total, the applicant counted 12 empty units, none of which would be suitable for the intended use.

Planning permission already exists for residential use on part of the first floor and a new second floor, say agent Chapman Lily.