PERMISSION is being sought to convert a Christchurch gift shop into a home.
The owner of Wisteria in Bargates has applied to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council to convert the store area into living accommodation.
Falling footfall has meant that Christine Shave now only opens the shop on Saturdays and she is now seeking permission to extend the flat above into a two-storey home.
As well as formally changing the use of the ground floor of the building, the application outlines plans to convert the shopfront to a more residential style.
“The shop is now only open on Saturdays due to the change in shopping habits and poor footfall,” her application forms says.
“It is my only residence and is not suitable to let out as the commercial and residential areas are not independent.”
The proposal will be considered by council planning officers in the coming weeks.
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