Finding a new tenant for a former town centre bank is proving difficult because of the building’s traditional frontage, councillors will be told next week.
The owners of the old Barclays Bank in Northallerton High Street have applied to change the front windows and door of the premises to make it more attractive for potential occupiers.
Paul Lunn Architectural Services said their clients and the building’s owners, Carolgate Friendly Society, had been marketing the property in an effort to secure a new long-term retail tenant after Barclays gave up the lease last year.
However, their report adds: “This has not been successful, with the primary feedback being that the high windows and heavy frames do not provide adequate display opportunities for prospective tenants.
“To address this concern and enhance the property’s appeal, the landlord intends to install new timber display windows with a lower cill level and a new glazed entrance door.
“These modifications will improve the display options and help attract a new tenant to the High Street.”
A supporting letter is provided by Brassington Rowan Chartered Surveyors, which has tried to market the property for the owners.
The company said the town was currently enjoying a high occupancy rate and the former bank occupied arguably the strongest location on High Street.
It added: “Numerous potential retailers have made internal inspections and whilst they are happy with the internal size, layout and specification, not one is willing to take the property due to the traditional banking frontage comprising extensive brick and stonework, narrow windows and high cills.”
But North Yorkshire Council planning officers will recommend that the application be rejected when councillors debate the application.
Case officer Lucy Goundry said in a report to members: “The proposed development would result in harm to the character and appearance of the
existing building, which is identified as a non-designated heritage asset.
“The alterations would undermine its architectural integrity and historic value, thereby detracting from the character of the wider street scene and surrounding area.”
She adds that the changes fail to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the designated conservation area and would cause less than substantial harm to the significance of the heritage asset.
The bank shut in March last year, ending Barclays 190-year physical connection with the town.
The Richmond area planning committee will discuss the application on Thursday next week.
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