Plans for former Isle pub to be turned in to a supermaket

A former Isle pub could be converted in to a supermarket, if plans submitted to the council are given the go ahead.

The old Mowbray Arms, on Albion Hill, in Epworth, could become a Co-operative convenience store if the proposal is given the green light.

The new supermarket would create 25 new jobs; 10 full time and 25 part time.

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North Lincolnshire Council’s planning department have received 35 letters of support and six letters of objection for the plan, and also and one letter making observations.

Those in favour of the development said they would welcome a new use for the former pub, which has been vacant since January 2017.

Some also said that they would like a shop to provide a wider selection of food and household goods.

A representative from Hattys Tearoom, on Epworth High Street, said: “We love to use the Co-op because of using local produce and being far to the farm producers.”

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The proposed development would replace the existing Co-op in the Market Place in Epworth town centre which has inadequate storage and customer parking facilities. This new store would have 15 car parking spaces.

People against the proposal said they believed the Mowbray Arms should not be turned in to a shop as it is a listed building. They also raised concerns about increased noise levels and traffic congestion.

Jason Metcalf, a local resident, added: “15 car parking spaces is not enough for a large Co­-op  store. Without sufficient car parking provision I am concerned as to the disruption it will cause as customers will undoubtedly park on the surrounding roads and residential streets.”

The plans would see part of the former Mowbray Arms demolished to make way for the Co-operative supermarket, although part of the building will be retained and extended for use as a cafe or a bar.

The public consultation on the proposal has now closed, but it is not yet known when North Lincolnshire Council will make a decision on whether or not to give the development the go-ahead.

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