PLANS have been lodged to make a vacant town centre site ‘more appealing’ for buyers.

A change of use planning application has been submitted for the former Hayloft Gallery at 14 Wick Lane in Christchurch. 

It requests Class E categorisation of the site to allow for commercial, business, and service uses, as it is currently restricted to use as a craft studio and gallery.

Applicant Mr Wood notes the gallery has been empty for approximately a year due to a “decline in interest for the sites current use”.

A Design and Access Statement prepared by Chapman Lily Planning Ltd on Mr Wood’s behalf reads: “The site has been vacant for approximately one year, due to its current use becoming unviable due to a decline in customers and demand.

"Therefore, a change of use to Class E will give the applicant greater flexibility to make effective use of the land.

“Additionally, a change of use to Class E will create new job opportunities, contributing positively to the local community and the realisation of the council’s strategic vision for ‘Christchurch to be a vibrant centre of commercial and cultural activity, with niche shopping, and varied attractions and facilities for residents and visitors alike’."

It is also noted there are no physical works associated with the application, therefore it is expected that there will be “no harm to associated heritage assets”.

Arguing that Wick Lane is appropriate for Class E use, the statement adds: “There are Class E uses present on Wick Lane, with a hairdressers located at 12a, and shops at No 11 & 2.

"This would suggest 14 Wick Lane is an appropriate site for a Class E use, in keeping with the character of the area.”

A decision is yet to be made on the planning application.