New coffee shop and playpark approved on site of derelict buildings in village centre

A NEW coffee shop, children’s playpark and entertainment space can be built in Burley after the national park authority approved the plans.

As reported in the A&T, applicant Nigel Blow applied to demolish several derelict buildings behind Shappen Stores in Ringwood Road to make way for a new shop, ice cream parlour and outdoor seating area. The application also included a new multi-purpose barn.

Mr Blow, who recently took ownership of the 1.25-acre site which includes Shappen Stores, wants to re-establish it as a central focus of the village.

The store itself, which includes a butcher and post office, would continue to trade. The new business will create around nine full-time and five part-time jobs.

The application stated: “Proposals are being considered, namely a coffee shop or tea room that is dedicated to the products of the New Forest Marque [and] a flexible function space that can accommodate charitable and commercial events for the owners of the building as well as for the villagers.

“The combination of the proposals are aimed at updating the offering from one of the oldest established businesses in the village to the ongoing tourism that is so critical to the economy of the national park.”

The application received 15 representations of support from people who said it would be “a positive scheme” for the area and provide a much-needed play area. Burley Parish Council also gave its backing.

It also drew eight objections, however, with concerns over traffic safety, increased noise and the scale of the new buildings.

An NPA report said: “The proposal is considered acceptable and appropriate to the area.

“It would comply with the relevant policies of the Local Plan and the scale, design and use of appropriate building techniques and vernacular materials would ensure that it would be acceptable and would preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.

“There would not be any adverse impact on parking or traffic in the area and the residential amenities of near neighbours would not be affected.”