Sedgley is set to welcome a new gastro pub after Dudley Council planners approved a change of use for a High Street unit. The property, located in the town centre, comprises a ground-floor shop with two storeys of residential accommodation above. The shop has remained vacant since 2021, which agent Complete Design argues demonstrates a lack of demand for retail units in the area.
Transformation of the Unit
In a statement supporting the application, Complete Design outlined the planned internal changes: 'A bar, kitchen and toilet area would be created with a new acoustic suspended ceiling installed throughout to safeguard residential properties above. The entrance from Dudley Road would be retained along with the loading entrance to the rear.' Loading will be restricted to rear access between 9am and 5pm on weekdays.
The proposal involves no external alterations, so the building's appearance will remain unchanged. The new bar is scheduled to operate from 10am until midnight seven days a week, creating two full-time jobs.
Council Approval
A report from council officers stated: 'It is considered that the proposal accords with the objectives of the Black Country Core Strategy and Dudley Borough Development Plan and would not have any detrimental impact on the vitality and viability of the centre. Furthermore, subject to conditions, local residents or highway safety would not be detrimentally affected by the proposal.'
Dance Studio for Kingswinford School
In a separate decision, Dudley planners have also approved the conversion of three classrooms at The Kingswinford School on Water Street into a gym and a dance studio. Council planning officers concluded that the changes were internal only and did not alter the established educational use of the school, meaning full planning permission was not required. A certificate of lawful development has been issued.
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