Bid to transform empty city unit

THE former Early Learning Centre unit in Dundee city centre could be occupied for the first time since 2014 after plans were revealed to convert it into a restaurant and cafe.

The popular children’s store shut three years ago and the unit, in Commercial Street, has lain vacant since.

If approved, the proposals could provide a boost for the street, which has several other empty units, including the former registrar’s office and the old Mercantile pub.

Dundee-based architect Jon Frullani has submitted plans to Dundee City Council on behalf of Birmingham company A’ila Moraraba Ltd.

Mr Frullani told the Tele there was no specific restaurant type in mind.

However, the plans include the creation of a storage space in the basement of the unit, along with a seated restaurant area at the front of the premises and a kitchen.

In a statement submitted to the local authority, Mr Frullani said the unit had remained vacant since the Early Learning Centre’s lease of the premises expired in 2014.

The retailer now occupies space in the Mothercare store at Gallagher Retail Park.

Mr Frullani said he felt the proposals would comply with the council’s planning policies while helping to maintain the historic elements of the building — which is home to a number of other retail and cafe units.

He said: “The proposed external and internal alterations have been demonstrated to preserve the character and setting of the category A-listed building and the character and appearance of the central conservation area.

“The proposals shall facilitate the re-use of the vacant commercial premises in a sustainable and sympathetic manner, safeguarding the future of the building and its contribution to the built heritage of the city centre.

“The proposal therefore satisfies the statutory requirements of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997 as well as complying with the relevant policies of the Dundee Local Development Plan 2014.

“For these reasons we believe that there are no material considerations that would justify refusal of listed building consent.”

The plans will now go to planning officials and may be called in front of councillors for a decision.

The former Early Learning Centre store in Commercial Street may be converted into a restaurant and cafe.