White Peak Planning was approached by S&D Leisure to prepare a planning application for the change of use and extension of 159-161 Monton Road in Monton, Salford.

The application site comprised two adjoining units - 159 Monton Road and 161 Monton Road. The units were seperated at ground floor by an undercroft passageway, which provided access into a rear courtyard.

159 Monton road was being used as a motorcycle shop, with a residential dwelling to the rear and first floor. 161 Monton Road was occupied by a florist shop at ground floor, whilst a two bedroom flat occupied the first floor.

S&D Leisure wanted to combine and convert the units to a mix of retail, bar and restaurant with the aim of creating a continental style cafe bar/restaurant with internal florist and ice cream counter.

We worked closely with the architect and noise consultant to ensure a suitable scheme was designed that complied with policy and would not result in unacceptable impacts on nearby residents. We also undertook a study of Monton Neighbourhood Centre in order to demonstrate that the loss of retail use would not harm the vitality and viability of the local area.

Planning permission was granted in March 2018. Since then a series of S73 applications have been submitted and approved, which include the removal of the retail elements, alterations to the design and allowing for live music to be played at the venue.