'Failed' town centre bar could be transformed into beauty salon and flat
Plans have been put forward to convert a ‘failed’ town centre bar into a beauty salon and flats.
Documents submitted to Wakefield Council said Bar Liquid, in Pontefract, was “no longer viable.”
Proposals include changing the use of the building, on Shoe Market, to allow a nail and beauty salon to operate on the ground and first floors and for the upper floor to be converted into a one-bedroom flat.
The property is within a conservation area and is close to St Giles’ Church.
A planning statement submitted on behalf of applicant Anh Van Thi Nguyen said: “The application site comprises a three-storey building located within the historic town centre of Pontefract.
“The building is not listed but forms part of the wider conservation area and contributes positively to the established streetscape through its scale, proportions and traditional architectural form.
“The surrounding area is characterised by a mix of commercial, service, and residential uses, reflecting the town centre’s historic and evolving mixed-use nature.”
The document also said: “The former bar use has failed and is no longer viable. The proposed nail and beauty salon offers a more suitable and sustainable commercial use that will support local economic activity.
“The upper floor space is not in demand for commercial use and is better suited as a one-bedroom residential unit, helping meet local housing needs.”
Plans include an upgrade of fire safety equipment but the document said changes to the interior of the property would be “minimal.”
A new illuminated sign for the outside of the building is also proposed.
The statement also said: “The proposed residential use makes efficient and sustainable use of underutilised space. There is an ongoing local need for smaller residential units, and the proposal contributes to housing supply without the need for new development or land take.
“The retention of commercial use on the lower floors ensures that the building continues to support town-centre economic activity.
“This mixed-use approach aligns with planning objectives encouraging residential use above commercial premises in town centres.”
Planning officers have yet to determine the application.