Traditional shopfront repairs at 70 - 72 High Street, Lowestoft

“1.Summary 1.1.This application seeks permission for the replacement of modern shopfronts at Nos. 70-71 High Street with traditionally detailed timber designs and repairs to the existing Edwardian shopfront at No. High Street. The site lies within the North Lowestoft Conservation Area and comprises Positive Unlisted Buildings that contribute to the historic character of the High Street.”

“2.Site Description 2.1.The site comprises three ground-floor commercial units within two mid-to-late 19th- century buildings on the east side of High Street, within the North Lowestoft Conservation Area. Nos. 70-71 were designed in 1877 by George Glover and exhibit Italianate detailing, including rusticated stone quoins and cast iron balconies at upper levels. No. 72 retains an Edwardian shopfront with curved glazing and decorative pilasters.”

“Minor repairs to rusticated quoins at No. 70 are also included. The use of the premises as retail units with residential above remains unchanged. 4.Consultations Third Party Representations 4.1.No-third party letters of representation have been received at the time of writing. Parish/Town Council ConsulteeDate consultedDate reply received 131”

“8.1.The North Lowestoft Conservation Area Character Appraisal identifies the High Street as retaining a notable collection of late 19th and early 20th-century shopfronts. Nos. 70-72 High Street are Positive Unlisted Buildings that contribute to this character, but the existing modern shopfronts at Nos. 70-71 are incongruous and detract from the architectural significance of the buildings and the wider conservation area. In contrast, No.”

“8.4.National policy in the NPPF requires great weight to be given to the conservation of heritage assets (paragraphs 199-202). The proposals will enhance the significance of the buildings and the conservation area and deliver public benefits through heritage-led regeneration, improved townscape quality, and support for local economic activity.”

“Lowestoft Town Council10 December 2025No response Summary of comments: No comments received at time of writing 5.Publicity The application has been the subject of the following press advertisement: PublicationPublished dateExpiry dateReason Beccles and Bungay Journal 19 December 202514 January 2026Conservation Area Lowestoft Journal19 December 202514 January 2026Conservation Area 6.Site notices Site Notice TypeDate PostedExpiry dateReason General Site Notice10 December 20255…”

“The Committee received reportES/2673 which related to application DC/25/4557/FUL and the Assistant Planning Officer/Planner gave a presentation. The application sought permission for the replacement of modern shopfronts at Nos. 70-71 High Street with traditionally detailed timber designs and repairs to the existing Edwardian shopfront at No. High Street.”

“The Chair said it was great that work like this was happening on the Lowestoft High Street.”

“On the proposal of Councillor Plummer, seconded by Councillor Byatt it was unanimously…”

“The Assistant Planning Officer/Planner showed proposed elevations and pointed out that it was deemed compliant with all relevant local and national planning policies so was recommended for approval.”

“That planning permission is granted subject to the full outcome of the consultation period being presented to committee.”