Food hall plans at former Poulton police station get go ahead

After the premises on Market Place were bought by Choice Hotels in February last year, the company stated its aims to create Bobby’s Yard, offering top local, independent food and drink.

The scheme went before the planning committee on Wednesday when the councillors present unanimously approved it, subject to various conditions.

The building, in the town’s conservation area, will now be turned into a mixed-use retail and leisure development with a food and shopping hall.

Business space for independent delis, cafes or food and beverage retailers will be created at the front of the building with outdoor seating overlooking market square.

The remainder of the station is to be refurbished and external ancillary buildings at the rear of the station are to be demolished to make way for a covered dining courtyard.

Entrance to the food hall will be through the prominent station archway and the owners say the existing street scene will remain largely unchanged

The original police cell will be retained in its original position as a visitor attraction.

Conditions include provisos that dust and dirt mitigation measures and noise vibration controls should be in place during the demolition and construction periods.

A spokesman for Choice Hotels said “Poulton is a place where we have been looking to invest for some time.

“The former police station is an exciting site at the heart of Poulton’s town centre.”