Plans for new bar at former fruit shop approved

A former fruit shop in Seaham is set to be transformed into a bar – despite concerns.

A planning application wa s l o d ge d i n 2 0 1 9 fo r 5 1 Church Street, which lies in the Seaham Conservation Area.

Developers said the plans aimed to update the existing building, which has been vacant since 2017, and “ensure that it does not fall into further disrepair.”

A raft of measures were proposed to reduce disruption to neighbours and the public including specialist ventilation equipment and time limits on deliveries.

In addition, ap plicants confirmed their intention to use the first floor as a residential flat in connection with the bar and to have a "background music only” policy on the ground floor.

Following consultation, the plans sparked four objections on the grounds of competition and the impact on a neighbouring pub.

Ac c o rd i n g to p l a n n i n g documents, ward councillors, local residents and the police also raised concerns about the operation of the new venue and the need for it on Church Street.

Durham Constabulary’s architectural liaison officer noted the “high volume of licensed premises in Church Street” and said another is “not advisable or what the area requires”.

Despite the concerns, Durham County Council’s planning department.nt said the bar plans were acceptable and would “fit in well within the street scene and surrounding area”.

Opening hours were also agreed in line with other venues in the area.

This includes 8am-11pm, Monday to Saturday and 8am1 0. 3 0 p m o n Su n d ays a n d bank holidays. 51 Church Street, Seaham, pictured in 2019.