Retrospective high street vape shop plan in Eastfield, Scarborough, approved despite objections
Plans to turn a garage into a vape shop in Scarborough have been approved retrospectively, despite objections.
The garage at 8, High Street, Eastfield, can be turned into a vape and sweet shop following the approval of retrospective plans by North Yorkshire Council.
An “elegantly designed fascia board will be installed above the entrance”, featuring the “Sweetvape Express” branding, according to plans submitted by The Orange Tree 1 Ltd.
The flat roof structure, which does not have any off-street parking provision, is accessed from a small road to the rear of High Street, leading to Proudfoot carpark.
The vape shop is at the rear of 8, High Street, Eastfield, which is a takeaway, and the two businesses are connected internally.
The proposed operating hours will be 11.30am to 10.30pm, from Monday to Saturday.
Eastfield Town Council objected to the plan, stating that the premises “are located on the path to school and are made to look enticing to young school children”.
It also raised concerns about “mobility access as the footpath there is very narrow and could pose a danger for people with mobility issues” and added that “due to the roof structure this could pose a fire hazard”.
However, no objections were made by the Highway Authority or the council’s environmental health team.
One objection was also made by a member of the public who raised concerns about whether the site conformed to retail and building regulations, as well as “problems associated with vape shops”.
Officers noted that Eastfield’s High Street has a varied mix of retail, hot food takeaways, and financial and professional services, and that the varied mix would not be undermined by the approval of the development.
A council report noted that while external alterations did take place, it said these were “minor”.
It added: “Whilst the development did not deliver a significant visual enhancement of the site, in this instance, it is considered that the development is suitable to its surroundings.”
Planners concluded that the development would “not cause an unacceptable degree of harm to the amenities of neighbouring properties” and the retrospective proposal was approved, subject to conditions, on Tuesday, June 9.