Cinema and commercial units at Former Debenhams, Bakers Lane, Lichfield

“The principle of development has been established under the extant permission and therefore there is no objection to the already approved cinema complex (Sui Generis) which includes four-screen cinema and commercial units (Class E) with public realm, landscaping and associated works; this was granted in 22 nd March 2024 (Planning Ref: 23/01216/COUM). A subsequent S73 application under planning ref: 24/01199/COUM was also approved for various minor amendments in Feb 2025.”

“The application site is within the Three Spire Shopping Centre, which a well-established shopping area within Lichfield city. The site Is split into two areas: the former Debenhams store and the 32 – 34 Bakers Lane, which comprises smaller retail units and the associated the service yard.”

“Of the existing units this site relates to an existing former department store building (Debenhams) sited at 46-48 Bakers Lane. This unit is the largest unit in the shopping centre (4240sqm) and is 3 storeys in height. The store has been closed since May 2021, and works are underway on site to redevelop the building. The building has features of the period of construction with materials of red brick and contrast buff brick and stone detailing.”

“14.04.2025- 24/01199/COUM- Application under Section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) to vary Condition 2 of planning permission 23/01216/COUM dated 22.03.2024 for: Demolition of Existing Retail Units (36-44 Bakers Lane) and the Redevelopment, Refurbishment and Partial Change of Use of the Former Debenhams to Accommodate a four-screen Cinema (Sui Generis) and Commercial Units (Class E) along with the Creation of Public Realm and Landscaping and…”

“The amendments do not give rise to any further impacts in terms of residential amenity, highways and ecology than the previously approved scheme. Details have been provided to address outstanding conditions, including details of cycle storage, landscaping, glazing panels and hard/ soft landscaping. Such details have been assessed and are considered appropriate and acceptable in the prominent location which is occupied by the site.”

“Summary Overall, the scheme is considered appropriate and acceptable and is recommended for approval subject to the recommendations with the reasons as outlined within this report.”

“Staffordshire County Council (Flood Team) – Request further information regarding the drainage strategy. (05.02.2026)”

“LDC Environmental Health Team – No objections raised in principle. The proposals alter the location of the rooftop plant associated with the development, and so I proposed a modification to previously agreed condition 8 as follows:”

“Site and Press Notices have been posted. At the time of publication of this report, no representations have been received in relation to the application. However, it is noted that the deadline for comments stated on the site notices is 24 February 2026, and the deadline specified in the press notice is 26 February 2026. An update will therefore be provided in the Supplementary Paper prior to the Planning Committee meeting.”

“Overall, in design terms the scheme remains of high quality and it is noted that the Conservation Officer has raised no objections. The proposed materials have been outlined and in principle are considered to be acceptable, however Officers consider that samples would still be necessary given the prominent position of the building. The materials condition has therefore been updated to reflect this.”

“The proposed schemedoes not seek to amend access or approved travel plan details. Details of cycle storage have been provided, which include additional cycling parking details. The proposed cycle storage would include 10 cycle storage spaces to the exterior of the building for use by the public and a first floor cycle storage room for staff. These details have been asssessed and are considered acceptable by the County Highway Authority.”

“RESOLVED: Approved in line with officer’s recommendations.”