THE owners of a chain of quirky and eclectic café-bar have applied for planning permission to convert a premises in Ross-on-Wye, which until recently had been occupied by The Original Factory Shop.

With over 300 branches nationally, Loungers UK Limited state that there would be minimal physical changes to the Malthouse building, located on Broad Street, aside from new ventilation outlets and air conditioning units to the rear, which will not be visible from public viewpoints and will have no discernible impact upon the appearance of the Ross-on-Wye Conservation Area.

The company expects to invest around £1 million to convert the Ross premises. And while the property itself is not listed, however The Maltings Shopping Parade within which the site is contained, does abut the Grade II listed building.

The site has an established lawful use within its class of commercial business and service so that no change of use is required to use the premises as a café/bar and restaurant.

Turley, the applicant’s agent, states that each Lounge is uniquely designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for families and pets.

The aim is to integrate with local customers, providing a space for various activities, whether it's a coffee after school drop-off, a working lunch, or an evening drink.

It adds that each new site generates approximately 30 jobs for the local community, ranging from leadership positions to front-of-house staff.

Employees will receive high-standard training in health and safety, licensing, and customer service, preparing them for future roles and ensuring excellent customer experiences.

The application states that no alterations are proposed to the exterior of the building aside from its branding, for which consent will be sought in due course.

The agent concludes that the proposal will ensure the occupation of the unit by a new occupier, providing a high-quality cafe/bar/ restaurant that complies with relevant planning policies.

Lounges are characterised by menus drawing from a wide range of cuisines, as well as individual décor including original paintings and lampshades. Loungers aim to encourage frequent visits, rather than just special occasions.

The Bristol-based firm’s most recent accounts showed it turned over £406 million in the year to April last year, during which time it was taken over by US-based Fortress Investment Group.

Comments on the application, number P261589/F, can be made via Herefordshire Council’s planning portal until Thursday, July 16.

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