Plans to turn Wickersley bank into restaurant passed

Bisichi Properties has won permission to convert the former Royal Bank of Scotland premises on the Tanyard precinct, after the bank was shut in August.

The applicants said the venture would create six jobs and improve the viability of the shopping area, off Bawtry Road.

A condition was added by Rotherham Borough Council to ensure the restaurant closes no later than 11pm.

Over the road, Urban Kitchen has been granted permission to expand — adding a toilet block to the side and a canopy at the front.

Applicant Darren Baker said: “It’s our position that the addition of the canopy will allow greater control over that area, particularly late at night.

“We spoke to our neighbours and had no objections whatsoever. It’s our intention to bring a vacant unit within Wickersley back into a viable, hopefully long-term use.”

The toilet block will replace the upstairs facilities, which will be used for storage, Mr Baker added.

Wickersley Parish Council was among the objectors to the development. Cllr Peter Thirlwall said: “This is just going to finish up being another outside bar in Wickersley. As far as we’re concerned, we’ve got enough.

“Wickersley has become Rotherham town centre with the night-time economy.”

Earlier this year, plans for the Olive Lounge, Courtyard and Italian restaurant W to take further advantage of Wickersley’s vibrant nightlife scene were rejected.

Cllr Thirlwall added: “I can’t see a difference between this application and the one that was refused for W.”

One objector said the rise in drinking establishments had created significant problems at weekends from noise and antisocial behaviour.

A report to Rotherham Borough Council’s planning board recommended the proposals be approved.

It added: “It is concluded that the development represents an acceptable form of development in this locality that will be in keeping with its character and appearance and would not adversely affect the amenity of neighbouring residents or highway users.”

Board members unanimously backed the recommendation at their meeting last Thursday.