Renfrewshire Council has refused planning permission for alterations to the 'dilapidated' shopfront of a gaming centre in Paisley. Luxury Leisure's application for changes at Admiral in Moss Street was rejected by the local authority.
Proposed Modern Design
Architects had explained that the client wanted to depart from the current 'traditional' format and replace it with a 'more contemporary design' which was 'more inviting for customers'. A design and access statement from late last year outlined the proposed removal of the existing timber shopfront, external signage, and ceramic tiling on the left-hand side, while retaining the timber pilasters, cornice, and capitol detailing.
The statement also noted that the new shopfront would allow for a new 1/15 ramped level access into the building from the left-hand side, into a more appealing internal lobby area. It stated: 'At present the ramped access is too steep and does not meet current DDA or Scottish building standards.'
Council Assessment
The premises is located within the town centre conservation area, surrounded by a mix of modern and traditional shopfronts. In its assessment, the council found that while the pilasters and console brackets would be retained, the recessed lobby—a key traditional characteristic—would be removed, along with the traditional timber surrounds and stallrisers, resulting in the loss of existing fenestration.
The council concluded that the proposed modern interventions, such as repositioning the doorway and installing an aluminium framed shopfront, would have a 'negative impact on the character and appearance of the traditional shopfront which occupies a prominent location in the conservation area'.
Decision and Additional Application
In its official decision notice, the council stated the proposal was contrary to various policies, citing its effect on the 'visual amenity' of the conservation area and the 'vitality' of the town centre. A separate application for advertisement consent for box and projecting signs at the site was also declined.
