Changes brewing – coffee shop wants spot on Prom

» CAFFE Nero wants to move into the former L.K. Bennett shop site in Cheltenham’s Promenade, according to plans submitted to the borough council.

A planning application has been lodged with the authority to change the use of the large unit that was occupied by the women’s clothing chain until last month. It is on the corner of Promenade and Imperial Square.

The plans have been submitted by planning agent Brian Madge.

In his report within the application, he said the European-style coffee house brand’s presence in the two-storey Grade Ii-listed building would “enhance” the area.

He said: “The presence of a Caffe Nero in this shopping street will help to maintain the centre’s viability by enabling customers to stay longer and promote shopping as a leisure activity.

“It enhances rather than damages vitality and viability.

“Coffee shops in general assist to reinforce retail vitality of shopping frontages, as well as reducing vacancy rates of retail premises. Locating a Caffe Nero in this shopping street will have no harmful effect on either nearby resident or employment amenity.

“It provides an attractive environment to take a rest and relax while shopping which is accessible to all members of the community.”

Caffe Nero already has two coffee shops in Cheltenham, in High Street and inside Cavendish House in Promenade.

In April, it was reported that L.K. Bennett had been bought out of administration, saving 325 jobs.

But it was said that 15 of the retailer’s stores were not included in the deal and would close, leading to the loss of 110 jobs. L.K. Bennett was said to have been bought by Byland UK, which was set up by Rebecca Feng, who runs the company’s Chinese franchises.