A town centre could be getting a boost to its night life with a bar mooted for a site opposite a new nightclub.
A planning application has been lodged with Bradford Council to convert a shop, which has three flats above it, to a licensed cafe and bar, open from 7am until midnight, and five studio flats.
The shop, at 41 Briggate, Shipley, has previously been a furniture store but it, and the flats, are empty.
The application has been submitted by Christopher Bee and Carole Yeadon, with Philip Coote acting as agent.
A design statement by Mr Coote said: “The reuse of the ground floor as a cafe bar with cover of about 28 persons will be a ‘destination’ use as well as one attracting passing trade and hopefully will enliven the Briggate frontage.”
The shop is opposite the former Glen Royal cinema, which burned down and was demolished in January, and the nightclub which is opening shortly.
Club Pink was to open on Friday, May 24, but yesterday it was announced that date has been delayed to allow for all work to be finished. Its new opening date is due to be announced next week.
Mark Cook, the manager of neighbouring business Hazzad, said: “A lot of the shops are closed, so any new business is welcome to bring more people here.
“It could possible make more people aware that we are here. The big concern around here is parking, which is a problem and possibly why a lot of businesses shut. A lot of people park round here then get the train to Leeds.”
Councillor Hawarun Hussain (Green, Shipley) said: “We do have a relatively good night life in Saltaire and that side of town, but not so much in Shipley, so that would be a good move.
“It would be good for Shipley’s economy and something for people to do without going out of Shipley.”
Coun Hussain said she had not been told about any plans for the former Glen Royal cinema.
People have until May 24 to comment on the plans, with a decision expected in June.
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