Scream Aloud Ltd wants to convert empty unit in Fordingbridge for 'spooky experiences'

THE New Forest could be set for its first escape room attraction after plans were lodged by a Lymington-based events company to convert an empty high street unit in Fordingbridge.

Scream Aloud Ltd, which runs fright nights and “ghostly experiences”, has applied to New Forest District Council for a change of use at 55 High Street.

Company director Joseph Carruthers wants to open up the vaulted basement room to create a “spooky subterranean crypt dating back to the 14th century” that is “filled with dark mysteries”.

He told the A&T: “This escape room experience will take you back in time to discover the crypt’s terrifying ghostly secrets.

“There will be special effects and a series of puzzles to solve, all housed in our immersive set and with no escape guaranteed!”

The change of use would not require building works, the application noted, and equipment and set dressing would be “completely non-invasive”.

“Our special effect lighting and sound is freestanding and portable, while props are handmade at our offices in Milford and do not require screwing down,” said Mr Curruthers.

The application also argued the facility would benefit the town by “increasing the spend in stores, restaurants and pubs”.

An objection lodged against the scheme warned that “hyped up” customers, fuelled by alcohol and even drugs, would create “unimaginable” noise for residents.

Originally a town house built in the mid 18th century, number 55 was converted into a shop in the mid-to-late 19th century.

A heritage statement accompanying the application stated: “The central part of Fordingbridge is generally an area that has been identified as being of archaeological interest, although the Archaeology and Historic Buildings Record does not reference this site directly and it already contains modern structures over part of it.”

NFDC is scheduled to make a decision after the deadline for public comments on 14th April.