Plans for former That's Entertainment shop decided on

Proposals were sent earlier this year to St Helens Council by applicant Dave Harold for permission for the change of use of the empty first floor retail premises on Church Street.

Permission was sought for a change of use of the unit from a shop to a multi-use venue.

Plans say that future uses of the space could include as a theatre; nightclub; public house; wine bar or drinking establishment with expanded food provision; venue for live music performance; cinema; concert hall; bingo hall and dance hall, plans state.

The unit, which forms part of the Church Square Shopping Centre complex, has been empty since That's Entertainment closed in 2018.

A design and access statement in the plans, drawn up by consultants Lawrenson Associates, said: “The large unit would remain physically unaltered internally and externally, since this application is purely for change of use.

“Internally, the large open-plan space is intended to accommodate a range of hospitality events by the Applicant, but also with the option to rent out the premises for public/private funcations”.

It added: “The large, open-plan space creates a unique and versatile unit in the heart of St Helens town centre.

“The applicant considers this unit to be excellent for a versatile, multi-use events venue”.

Inside the first floor space Pic: Lawrenson Associates (St Helens Council Planning Portal)

The statement concluded: “Presently, 8 Church Street sits vacant and abandoned, like many other retail units along Church Street.

“The applicant would like to occupy the unit, which would create jobs, add a venue to St Helens Town Centre, and positively impact the local economy”.

In a report, case officer Andrew Lainton recommended plans for approval.

he said: "Internally, the large open-plan space is intended to accommodate a range of hospitality events by the Applicant, but also with the option to rent out the premises for public/private functions".

The application was passed.