We always get asked questions about which shops/restaurants are coming and going – so here’s an update on Lorimers!
First off
, Lorimers is a shop in town I actually regularly go in and buy things from! Its a great stationers, card shop and toy shop. So any news of its demise is not good news for me, or for the town in my opinion. Anyway – a short history:
In May 2014 Planning Permission (Re
f: 14/05759/FUL) was granted to convert the shop into a restaurant.
The application highlighted that “The intended occupier is Wildwood, an expanding group of restaurants that serve freshly prepared food, sourced locally. Principal meals comprise grilled dishes, pizzas, pastas and burgers at affordable prices aimed at all ages. “
However, it seems that despite having the detailed planning application granted, Westwood are no longer going to take over the premises. Westwood confirmed this to us , adding that they now looking at other sites in the town. Lorimers declined to comment (as they say)
However, Lorimers are still intending on leaving – as the big “to Let” sign outside makes clear. Furthermore, it is being let as either Retail or Restaurant – given that planning has already been permitted. More details on the lease (a snip at £160,oo0 per year!) can be found on the website of agent Deriaz Slater. Perhaps the huge rental value gives a clue as to why Lorimers wish to leave!
BACKGROUND: Are there restrictions on the amount of retails location converting to restaurants ?
Wycombe District Council has a planning policy which includes the “Delivery and Site Allocation (DSA) document“. This requires that at least 60 per cent of the length of shop frontage on Marlow’s main shopping streets should be for retail use. In 2012 about 70% of Marlow main shopping street frontage was Retail use, leaving some scope for conversion to Cafes/Restaurants instead. So, now you know!
