New bar to open in former Seaham fruit shop

A planning application was lodged in 2019 for 51 Church Street, which lies in the Seaham Conservation Area.

Developers said the plans aimed to update the existing building, which has been vacant since 2017, and “ensure that it does not fall into further disrepair.”

A raft of measures were proposed to reduce disruption to neighbours and the public including specialist ventilation equipment and time limits on deliveries.

In addition, applicants confirmed their intention to use the first floor as a residential flat in connection with the bar and to have a ‘background music only’ policy on the ground floor.

Following consultation, the plans sparked four objections on the grounds of competition and the impact on a neighbouring pub.

According to planning documents, ward councillors, local residents and the police also raised concerns about the operation of the new venue and the need for it on Church Street.

Durham Constabulary’s architectural liaison officer noted the “high volume of licensed premises in Church Street” and said another is “not advisable or what the area requires.”

The statement from police added: ”There has been a rise in antisocial behaviour and an increase in noise related issues, which has resulted in a higher police presence in the area which has a negative impact and increases the fear of crime to residents and the public.”

Despite the concerns, Durham County Council’s planning department said the bar plans were acceptable and would “fit in well within the street scene and surrounding area.”

Following several amendments to designs, the council gave the green light to the change of use on Wednesday, October 7.

Planners added that competition was not a material planning consideration and that any ‘beer garden’ development to the rear would require separate planning permission.

Opening hours were also agreed in line with other venues in the area.

This includes 8am-11pm, Monday to Saturday and 8am-10.30pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

A council decision report goes on to say: “The proposed change of use and development works are considered to be acceptable and would help secure sustainable economic development and growth of the area.

“The proposed works would not have any detrimental impacts upon the character and appearance of the conservation area or create any adverse impacts upon the amenity of nearby properties to justify refusal of the application.”

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