Wellington building set for tea room

A change of use planning application has been submitted for the property, in Market Square, Wellington, that was previously occupied by an enterprise project.

Now the Beatons Tearooms and Bookshop chain inspired by society photographer Sir Cecil Beaton is hoping to move into the premises if given the go ahead by Telford & Wrekin Council planners.

A design and access statement lodged with the application by the site's agents MBI Surveyors Limited, states: "17 Market Square, located in the centre of Wellington, is a single fronted grade II listed retail premises with ancillary commercial accommodation on the first and second floors.

"This application concerns the ground floor only of a period property.

"The proposal for the subject unit to change its use to A3, Currently the property has A2 planning however A3 planning has been granted previously on a temporary basis which we understand has now lapsed. This does however ascertain the increasing demand for A3 units in town and city centres as well as the suitability of this property for such use. We consider the use to be sustainable with a set precedent and one that with the right operator such as Beatons, would actually enhance and preserve the building further – as well as improving the street scape and scene.

"The ingoing occupier Beatons Tearooms is a brand that should be welcomed in our view, as they will protect the asset of the building paying attention to its heritage, offering a new concept of tearoom and bookshop whilst offering a national brand to encourage visitor numbers and interest in this area of Wellington. Beatons as a brand avoids any deep fat frying and strong odours."

Cecil Beaton, who died in 1980 aged 76, is one of the most celebrated 20th century British portrait photographers and is renowned for his glamorous images. He worked with the Queen, model Twiggy and Hollywood's Marilyn Monroe and Marlene Dietrich among other famous faces.

The deadline for public consultation is March 29.