New proposals have been submitted to transform the unused loft space of Whitby's Grade-II listed Abbey Wharf Market Hall into an additional seating area for the existing restaurant and bar.
Whitby's historic Abbey Wharf could be transformed as part of new conversion plans for the Grade-II listed building.
The unused loft space of the Abbey Wharf Market Hall could be turned into a new seating area for customers of the existing restaurant and bar.
The building operates a successful food and drink venue in a 1960s extension of the core 19th-century Market Hall, which remains intact and is of high heritage value, according to plans.
Located in the centre of Whitby, the site occupies a waterfront location on the east side of the harbour and is predominantly surrounded by commercial leisure and tourism establishments.
The 1960s extension is of “low architectural and historic significance” and provides a “functional space for the existing bar and restaurant use”.
Three years ago, plans to build a roof terrace and extend an internal mezzanine at Abbey Wharf in Whitby were rejected by the now-defunct Scarborough Borough Council over concerns about heritage impacts.
The new plans state:
“The proposed loft conversion would be a modest enhancement of the 1960s extension, providing additional seating capacity with minimal impact on the listed building’s historic fabric. Accessibility remains at the forefront of the operation, with all main areas of the business remaining fully inclusive.
“Overall, it is determined that the proposals will result in a slight impact on the significance of the site which, through use of sensitive materials that complement the host structure and improve the aesthetic and viability of the 1960s extension, will be positive. The works will result in no harm.”
Access to the proposed loft area would be via a staircase within the 1960s extension.
“Owing to building constraints and heritage sensitivities, step-free access to the loft is not feasible,” according to the applicant.
However, the current bar and restaurant have level access into the main trading floor and can be accessed by a stair lift from the external entrance if necessary, and existing outdoor spaces are fully accessible.
“The loft will offer the same meals and drinks as the main restaurant and customers unable to access the loft will not be disadvantaged, as identical services remain fully available on accessible floors,” the applicant noted.
North Yorkshire Council has not set a date for deciding on the plans, which are open to representations from members of the public.
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