Expansion underway at Lytham flagship store

The scheme will see new office space created at Stringers in Clifton Square by extending the roof.

Construction has seen scaffolding installed around the building in the heart of the town centre.

A design statement which accompanied the planning application says the work is part of a programme of refurbishment for the premises which started life as a drapery store .

It says additional space is needed to accommodate office staff who are currently based in a confined area on the second floor.

As the business and number of staff has grown, it has created a need for expansion.

The statement adds: “The proposal to rectify these issues is to redevelop and refurbish the whole of the existing second floor non-trading areas including the roof space overlooking Market Square, Clifton Square and Park Street.”

Further refurbishment will include the main shop frontage and the canopy.

The design brief says: “This is the first phase of a long term development plan that will also include the refurbishment of the building facades and dilapidated veranda.

“This refurbishment work will be done in a sensitive way to respect the character of the conservation area.”

Stringers was originally founded as a drapery store in 1852 in the building forming the current main entrance to the store.

Over the years it has expanded into neighbouring buildings and the current store occupies five former individual shops and trades over three floors.

It has been under the ownership and management of the Clarke family since 1952.

Fylde Council planners approved a revised submission for the development in March.