Plans for derelict Dell to become tourist spot
A FORMER petrol station located in a popular Staffordshire Moorlands tourist village is set to be demolished and replaced with a cafe and shop.
A planning application has been submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council for the proposed demolition of an existing derelict concrete block/asbestos roofed building and replacement with timber building for use as a cafe/shop at Dell Filling Station, Star Bank, Oakamoor.
The filling station is located in the centre of the village.
A design and access statement, submitted with the application on behalf of the applicant, Kieren Carnwell, said: “It is sited within the village car park which is accessed through a wide entrance.
“There is excellent visibility when entering and exiting the car park. There is parking for several vehicles. The site is adjacent to the Oakamoor Heritage Trail.
“The new structure will increase the existing floor plan by six metres.
“There will be a toilet for use by customers and staff. There will also be a portable ramp to allow wheelchair access into the shop area.
“The appearance of the proposed development will match the existing surroundings more than the current building does in that it will be of appropriate design, appearance and materials.
“It will be constructed of timber with horizontal timber cladding and painted in a vintage cream. It will have a pitched roof.”
Th existing building is sited in front of the old lime kilns which are Grade II listed.
The design and access statement said: “These lime kiln contribute to the character of the area. In our opinion the existing building is detrimental to the lime kilns’ character as it is built of ugly concrete block with an asbestos roof and is in complete disrepair.
“It is unsuitable for renovation or refurbishment as there is significant damp in the building. It is extremely small, needs a new roof and needs services installing.
“This application has many benefits: A much improved and more sympathetic structure, complimentary to the existing surrounding structures and in keeping with the heritage aspect of the village.
“It will be a community focused cafe shop offering a much needed facility for both local residents, ramblers and other tourists.
“If the council allow us to also tidy up the adjoining grassy area, make child safe with a fence, gate and picnic benches, this will encourage more people to take a rest/stop while passing through. This may also help other businesses such as the nearby Cricketers Arms pub”
It is expected that decision on the application will be made within the next six to eight weeks.