A new conference and banqueting suite could be coming to Ribbleton’s Miller Road.
A planning application has been lodged by agents Aamir Design Ltd to transform 5,730 sq metres of retail space, which was originally occupied by Kwik Save.
The application details meetings held between the applicants and local councillors where it was acknowledged that the site was challenging not only in terms of business, but also due to crime and anti-social behaviour.
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The application also notes that, during a meeting with Leader of Preston City Council Councillor Matthew Brown, “alternative uses were considered and the suggestion of a conference and banqueting suite was raised and after deliberation, accepted as a potential long-term solution with the added benefits of revitalising the area and creating much needed employment opportunities.”
A spokeswoman for the city council said regarding the meeting with Cllr Brown: “In June, Councillor Matthew Brown met with the applicant, along with ward councillors, regarding the site, its future and local concerns about its current state. No pre-application planning advice has been sought from the applicant, from either Councillor Brown or the Council’s Planning Department.”
The plans include altering the entrance porch from powder-coated metal cladding to a “high pressure laminate in stretcher bond with matching red multi rustic facings below sill”. An increase in parking spaces from 82 to 98 is also in the plans.
The new conference and banqueting suite is expected to create ten full-time and 20 part-time jobs. Proposed opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 11pm, and weekends and bank holidays from 9am to midnight.
The full planning application can be found on the Preston City Council website.
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