New chapter for former Lloyds Bank branch in Shropshire town

A former bank branch in the centre of a historic Shropshire town is set to be converted into residential accommodation.

Lloyds closed its branch in Cleobury Mortimer in January 2023 since when the unit has sat empty.

A planning application has now been lodged with Shropshire Council to renovate the property at 39 High Street to create a four-bedroom home.

The proposed work includes filling in the former cash machine, replacing some of the windows, constructing new pitched and flat roofs to the rear and reopening former door structures to restore circulation. The building is grade II listed and dates back to the early 1800s.

Documents supporting the planning application said that property agents tried to market the vacant building to other banks to re-establish a branch in the south Shropshire town but no interest was received.

"The absence of interest reflects the well-documented national trend of high street bank closures and consolidation within the sector," the report said.

"In this context, the proposed works represent a pragmatic approach to securing a viable and sustainable future for the heritage building, ensuring that it remains in active use while safeguarding its historic character.

"The proposed works represent a sensitive and proportionate intervention that will enhance the rear elevation of the building by removing later additions and revealing the underlying historic form.

"The development therefore represents an appropriate and heritage-led proposal which accords with both local and national planning policy relating to the conservation of the historic environment.

"Overall, the proposals secure the long-term viability of 39 High Street as a residential dwelling, supporting its continued maintenance, use and contribution to the streetscape and townscape.

"The proposed change of use will not unacceptably impact the role of Cleobury Mortimer as a market town or key service centre.

Sign up to our email newsletters here

"National Planning Policy Framework is clear that planning policies and decisions should respond positively to changing economic circumstances and avoid the long-term protection of sites or buildings where there is no reasonable prospect of their continued use for the allocated or existing purpose.

"In this case, the prolonged vacancy of the former bank, together with the well-documented structural decline in high street banking, demonstrates that there is no realistic prospect of the lawful use being re-established.

"The proposal therefore represents a pragmatic and policy-compliant response to changing economic conditions."