A former Barnstaple nightclub that lost its premises licence following concerns over crime and disorder could be transformed into eight flats under newly submitted planning proposals.
An application has been lodged with North Devon Council to convert the upper floors of 42 Boutport Street, Barnstaple, which was most recently home to Rumours nightclub, into residential accommodation.
Applicant A Witter is seeking permission to convert the first-floor nightclub into four flats, the mezzanine level into two flats and subdivide the existing second-floor flat into two further homes, creating a total of eight residential units.
Rumours lost its premises licence in 2022 after North Devon Council found the venue had breached licensing objectives relating to crime and disorder, public nuisance, public safety and the protection of children from harm. A subsequent appeal at Barnstaple Magistrates’ Court upheld the council’s decision to revoke the licence.
Planning documents submitted with the application state the upper floors have remained vacant since the licence was revoked. The applicant says the premises has been extensively marketed for commercial use by several agents since 2022, including JD Commercial and Blue Alpine, but no commercial tenant has been secured despite rent concessions and flexible lease terms being offered.
The design and access statement says the proposal would provide a mix of one and two-bedroom flats intended to offer affordable accommodation for sale or rent. The plans also include communal refuse and bicycle storage.
The property lies within the Barnstaple Town Centre Conservation Area. Planning documents state the front elevation facing Boutport Street would remain unchanged, with only limited alterations proposed to less visible elevations, including additional windows and rooflights.
A heritage statement submitted with the application says the development has been designed so that no works would affect the adjoining Grade II listed building.
A separate noise impact assessment concludes that, subject to appropriate glazing and ventilation measures, satisfactory internal noise levels can be achieved for future residents. The report also concludes that no remedial works are required to the party wall shared with the neighbouring Horse & Groom public house.
North Devon Council will determine the application at a later date.
