New bid to convert old bar

Developers have launched a new bid to convert a former Lye bank into a bar after the scheme was turned down by council planners.

But residents and business leaders fear the plan will have serious repercussions for the town centre.

The scheme to turn the former Barclays Bank, in High Street, into a bar and dining area were refused by Dudley Council's development control committee in February.

But the applicant, a private developer, is now seeking to overturn the decision and has lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate in Bristol.

The appeal was formally lodged last week and businesses and residents are now awaiting a date when the plans will be considered.

Protesters are concerned the development would increase traffic along the already congested High Street and force customers and delivery drivers to park vehicles in surrounding streets.

They have also complained there are already too many licensed premises in the town leaving no room for daytime businesses.

Members of the development control committee turned down the application due to the highways issues.

People are asked to write with their views to The Planning Inspectorate at Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN.