Specsavers to move into empty town centre unit
Optician and hearing service provider Specsavers is set to move into an empty shop unit in Stafford’s Market Square.
The building at the front of the town’s Guildhall Shopping Centre dates back to the 15th century but the shopfront, which is Grade II Listed, is of 18th century origin. It was previously home to the town’s River Island branch, before the chain moved to the Riverside Shopping Centre, but has been vacant for some time.
Now it is due to reopen once again as a branch of Specsavers. Earlier this month Stafford Borough Council gave permission for the deteriorated shopfront to be refurbished, as well as new signage, entrance doors and internal alterations.
A planning officers’ report said: “The existing shop front has deteriorated and parts of the timber frame are rotten. The proposal seeks to repair the shop front by repairing the rotten cills to match like for like and to be painted in basalt grey.
“The retention of the existing shop front is welcomed and the muted colour scheme is considered to be acceptable as this is considered to preserve the character of the listed building and the surrounding conservation area.
“The existing modern shutter doors are to be replaced with timber doors that are also to be painted in basalt grey. It is considered that this change would be more in keeping with the historic character of the building.”
Stafford already has a Specsavers branch in Gaolgate Street.
