Oatcake fans are set for a new shop where they can 'net' North Staffordshire's favourite delicacy - after plans were approved to convert a former fishmongers.
Applicant Jason Adams wants to make, bake and sell oatcakes from the shop in Broad Street, Hanley.
And nearby traders have welcomed the project - which has been given the go-ahead by planners at Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
A planning statement submitted to the local authority states: “The client seeks to obtain permission to change the use from a former retail unit which has been trading previously as a fishmongers.
“There will not be any external alterations to the front of the premises, whereas the rear elevation will see an addition of an extraction system.
“A mixed use class is sought due to the fact the products will be manufactured as wholesale retail packets which customers can purchase of take away for consumption. There will also be filled oatcakes which will be available at the premises to consume or takeaway.
“Due to the locality of the business being so close to the city centre it does benefit from having parking facilities available in very close proximity via the council’s pay and display car parks.
“There are traffic restrictions in place directly outside the premises and this use change will therefore not negatively impact any highway matters.”
The proposal has since been approved.
A council report states: “The site is located on Broad Street to the edge of Hanley just outside the town centre. The immediate area is a mix of retail and commercial with many food outlets in the vicinity. There are no alterations proposed apart from the erection of an extraction system. No shutters are being proposed and there would be no impact on the streetscene.
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“This development would not be alien in this area and as such is deemed acceptable.”
Businesses in Broad Street have welcomed the empty shop being brought back to use.
Ram Kumar, aged 26, of Metro Stores, said: “It is currently empty and I will be happy to see someone in the shop as it could boost our business.”
Silvana Barlow, aged 48, who runs The Full Monty which also sells oatcakes, said: “Competition is good. There are too many empty shops. It is good to see the street busy. Trade is good.”
Kadir Cibik, aged 36, of Lokanta Turkish Food, said: “I welcome a new business as it will help attract people to the area.”
And Matt Hansbury, aged 55, of City Fancy Dress, added: “It has been in the pipeline for a while and I hope it opens.”
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