Bar boss’s plans for growth are in Clouds

THE owner of a bottle shop and bar is hoping to expand by opening a second outlet in Macclesfield town centre.

Mark Sharples, from Five Clouds, on the Market Place, wants to convert an office at King Edward House, on Jordangate.

He has submitted a planning application to Cheshire East Council, which has already received support as a good alternative to replace the decreasing demand for office space caused by working from home.

As part of public consultation one respondent said: “Opening a bar in a former licensed premises would be a significant attraction in this part of the town.

“Rather than have unused office space in this building I would rather see a vibrant well run licensed premises.

“Such a proposal would surely benefit the local economy and attract visitors from surrounding areas into Macclesfield which in turn would assist the post Covid regeneration of the town centre.”

Another said: “With a dwindling need for office space, this is a fitting use for a building that has a long history in the pub trade, rather than sitting empty as so many more buildings in the area are.

“The owner and staff of

Five Clouds have a proven track record of running a respectable establishment, this enterprise can only add to the vibrancy of the area.”

During the lockdowns of the last 12 months, which have hit the hospitality industry hard, Five Clouds launched a beer delivery service.

The Market Place bar did reopen for a time in July when Covid regulations permitted.

Requested opening hours for the new bar are 11am until midnight seven days a week.

Public comments can be submitted until May 19 and the council is expected to make a decision by the beginning of June.