A prominent empty shop in Penrith town centre could be split into two units and get a roof terrace to try and lure new tenants to take it on — and help drive away nesting seagulls.
The former Dorothy Perkins shop at Unit 8 in Angel Square has stood empty since falling victim to the pandemic in late 2020 when its parent company plunged into administration.
Closing in December, 2020, the large retail unit is next door to Starfruits and opposite Specsavers, but one tenant moving in has been the town’s seagull population which has found the quiet roof attractive for nesting and become a source of nuisance, according to the applicants.
An application has now gone into Eden District Council seeking planning permission to sub-divide it into two units, 8A and 8B.
It includes creating an open-plan rooftop terrace area for use by building users, and to help discourage the birds.
Owner The Shires Estate Investment Ltd, which lets or operates real estate from head offices in London, is behind the application.
Papers submitted to planners by Penrith-based agents YAM Architects said the alterations would make the property more attractive to potential tenants.
The works would involve changes to the shop front too but are described as minor, with any sub-division classed as permitted development.
Penrith Town Council has not raised any objection but suggested conditions might be needed for the use of the roof terrace.
It is planned to create a 1.8m high timber wall to cut any chance of neighbour nuisance with its use also limited to working hours, according to the submission.
