Plans to convert a former tattoo and beauty studio in Barrow into a house in multiple occupation (HMO) have been approved by the local council.
The property at 285 Rawlinson Street, previously home to Sweet’Art Tattoo and Beauty Studio until its closure in October 2022, will be redeveloped by Hocusway Ltd, a London-registered company. The site is located at a prominent junction in the town centre.
According to planning documents, the proposed conversion will involve minimal structural changes, with the building’s existing character largely preserved. The current main entrance, located at the corner of the property, will remain in place for aesthetic purposes, although the new primary entrance will be relocated to the side of the building on Buccleuch Street.
Alterations will also include the removal of the shopfront window facing Rawlinson Street, which will be replaced with a white UPVC window. Additionally, the shopfront window on Buccleuch Street will be substituted with a door and new brickwork.
Due to the site’s location at a junction and the presence of double yellow lines on Buccleuch Street, the development will not include any on-street parking provisions.
The planning decision had initially been delayed as discussions between the applicant and the council focused on the visual impact of the renovation. Council officers emphasized the importance of retaining certain architectural features, including the shopfront façade and distinctive corner entrance, citing the site’s visibility within the town centre.
Revised plans addressing these concerns were submitted, and council officers noted that the updated design meets both local and national planning policies.
In their report, council officials concluded: “The investment is to be welcomed and given significant weight. The revised design is now considered to retain the character of the building in line with local policy.”
The conversion is expected to contribute to local housing availability while preserving the aesthetic integrity of a key site within Barrow’s urban landscape.
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