Developer hopes to give Gainsborough a 'kick start' with plans for new shops and apartments

The planning application submitted to West Lindsey District Council is for the refurbishment of existing shop units in Lord Street, Gainsborough.

The proposed development of these properties into a variety of mixed uses including a café, retail and residential will bring a set of redundant buildings in Gainsborough back to life so they are able to contribute financially and socially to the area.

It is hoped the redevelopment will have a positive impact by significantly improving the appearance of the buildings which is even more important due to the fact that Lord Street is on one of the main pedestrian entrances into the market town.

The repair of the street frontage will improve the appearance of the town centre and make it more inviting to visitors.

Andy Hurley, who has submitted the planning application, said: “I bought the property at the end of January this year but everything has been slowed down by Covid-19.

"The property has been empty three years this time around but it has failed as a public house numerous times over the last ten years, hence the brewery disposing of it and over the last three years it has been a target for antisocial behaviour, arson and theft.

"This is in an area which the council are pushing for redevelopment, especially through the LOTS initiative (Living Over The Shops), and Local Authority Grants are available for the conversion of the upper floors to make or reinstate them as living accommodation.

"However due to the delays caused by Covid-19 we are likely to miss the funding deadline for this which is very unfortunate.

"The building, although not that old, it can't be altered too much, but the fronts need to sympathetically restored.

“And due to the public house not being viable we are seeking permission to create several shop units that are not oversized and we plan on offering subsidised rent for new start businesses and/or young, first time business people.

"Hopefully giving the area a much needed kick start.”

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