A prominent Wigan town centre building could be transformed into a new pub called The Wallgate
A planning application has been submitted for a prominent town centre building - but it has led to an objection from a neighbouring business.
One of Wigan’s most prominent town centre buildings could be converted into a pub.
Leisure and hospitality firm The OV Group has lodged a planning application for the change of use of 25 Wallgate from a recruitment agency to a licensed bar with accommodation.
It already operates pubs including Kilcoyne’s, The Bowling Green, The Whitesmiths Arms and The Cherry Gardens.
If approved, the group would create a bar called The Wallgate within the four-storey property, which dates to Victorian times and is in Wigan town centre conservation area.
Earlier this year, The OV Group described its aspirations for the site in a Facebook post, saying: “The Wallgate will be a traditional town centre pub based within the heart of Wigan.
“With old traditions features and a fabulous curb appeal, it sits at the heart of Wigan’s famous Wallgate.
“The site already has works underway during the demolition and ‘rip out’ stage before undergoing major investment to turn this building into a proper staple of Wigan.
“The offering will be simple… sports, entertainment, real ales along with some special and unique staples that we’re holding until a little closer to the opening stages.
“The pub will go over two floors and will hold an intimate but spacious areas for patrons to enjoy.”
A heritage assessment in support of the plans said: “The proposals will be readily absorbed into the building and area and will regenerate the derelict property.
“The proposals will not have a negative effect on the Wigan town centre conservation area.”
The plans include manager accommodation above the bar, which has triggered an objection from neighbouring Fatbird Live Lounge.
The objection said: “Our primary concern is that placing residential accommodation directly next to an established late-night entertainment use creates an inherent and unavoidable conflict.
“Future residents would inevitably be exposed to normal noise, music, bass and activity from our lawful operations – and this is highly likely to lead to noise complaints. Such complaints could then trigger unreasonable restrictions on our business, our operating hours, our live music provision and our existing licence – threatening our ability to trade lawfully and sustainably.
“We request that the residential accommodation element is removed from the application, or that this part of the proposal is refused.”
The planning application will be considered by Wigan Council in coming weeks.