A SCHEME to convert a former Woolworths store into two shops, office accommodation and flats, has been launched.
Salisbury-based firm, James Hay Pensions Trustees Ltd, has submitted a planning application to convert Woolies, on Caernarfon’s Pool Street.
The plan has been endorsed by Caernarfon Town Council, who passed the application on Tuesday night, and welcomed by business leaders who want to fill the gap left by Woolies when it collapsed at the turn of the year.
The fallen High Street giant closed its Caernarfon, Pwllheli and Bangor stores, on January 2, with the loss of more than 100 jobs locally.
Its Porthmadog and Barmouth outlets never made it through to the new year, closing on December 30.
James Hay, through their agents, the Anglesey based WM Design and Architecture Ltd, want to convert the landmark site into two retail units.
The firm also wants to subdivide the first floor of the building into office accommodation and a two bedroom apartment.
No details are available on what stores will rent the site, or how many jobs will be created as a result.
No one from James Hay or WM Design was available for comment.
However, Caernarfon Chamber of Trade chairman Bob Anderson said this latest development should be welcomed.
He said: “I think this is very good news. When Woolworths closed, it created a hole on the High Street which needs to be filled and I think traders across Caernarfon will welcome these plans.”
Deputy mayor Cllr Hywel Roberts said it was significant that firms were interested in developing the site on Pool Street.
“It can only be good news for the town that this important space is filled, and I am happy to support this application.”
In March the Herald revealed 50 jobs could be created, with the announcement that a national chain store will be moving into sites of the Porthmadog and Pwllheli branches.
Lancashire-based The Original Factory Shop, with 103 stores nationwide, confirmed they planned to take over both stores, which are expected to open imminently. Boots, the chemist, will be relocating and taking over the Bangor premises.
Great to see new life being brought into the old Woolworths site! 😊 What kind of shops are they planning to open?
Hope this brings some much-needed jobs to the area. Any updates on how many positions might be available?
I’m skeptical about this plan. Do we really need more shops?
Will the new development include any green spaces or eco-friendly features?
Thank you for the update! I’ve been wondering what would happen to the old Woolies building.
So excited for the potential new shops! I miss having more shopping options in Caernarfon. 🎉
Does anyone know what kind of stores are likely to move in?
Seems like a good move for the local economy. Fingers crossed it all goes smoothly!
I hope they preserve some of the original Woolworths architecture. It was iconic!
Will there be any public consultations before they start the construction?