Bistro and bar plan at old Dudley fire station backed
Major revamp plans to convert an historic former fire station into a stylish bistro and bar in Dudley have won support with the project poised to be given the go-ahead.
Entrepreneurs Shakeel Zafar, aged 39, and Craig Willis, aged 40, are getting ready to take over the empty building, in Priory Street.
The building, which was also previously Carvers Cafe before it closed in the 1990s, will be restored to its original fire station design under the proposals which have been recommended for approval by town planning officers.
Under the plans the entrance to the newly-refurbished bistro will be situated off Stone Street Square. There will also be outside tables.
A final decision on the scheme which includes a second-storey extension to accommodate a kitchen, office, toilets and stores will be made on June 3.
A report by council planning officer Pete Reed said: "It is concluded that the proposals contained within this scheme will have a very positive impact upon the character and appearance of the Dudley town centre conservation area, they will preserve and enhance the architectural and historic interest of the building which is locally listed."
Traders in the town have broadly welcomed the scheme saying it would boost footfall. But others have mixed views about another food outlet coming into the town.
Businessman Alan Caswell, who owns a toy shop in the Fountain Arcade, today said: "Anything that brings more people into this part of the town has got to be a done good thing. I'm all for it. There has been people saying there are already enough places to eat in the town but at least this is bringing something into Dudley."
If the plans are approved work on the project will get under way in the summer. Mr Zafar will be the manager of the building, while Mr Willis will be the head chef.
The building dates back to 1898 and remained operational until 1939 when a new police headquarters and fire station were built in Tower Street. From the 1940s it was used for a variety of purposes, including an RAF club, Payne's Shoe Shop and more recently Carvers Café.
It has been described as 'one of Dudley town centre's gems' by regeneration chief Councillor Shaukat Ali. And is among a number of on-going regeneration projects in the town aimed at boosting trade and visiting numbers.
