Umer Zubair has recently applied for planning permission to repurpose The Swan public house located on Bolton Road in Darwen. The proposal entails transforming the ground floor into a retail unit while converting the upper floor into a residential flat. With the premises having remained vacant since 2020, Zubair’s intention is to establish a convenience store that caters to the needs of nearby residents.
Previously, in 2023, the building had been approved for conversion into four one-bedroom flats, which included the installation of a new front door and window. However, the sight of boarded-up public houses has become all too common across the UK, with approximately eight such establishments closing daily. The former Swan Public House, having ceased trading in 2020, has since languished in a state of disrepair, despite efforts to market it for reuse as a pub.
The proposed mixed-use retail/residential scheme is deemed the most suitable and viable option for the building, according to a design and access statement prepared by Urban Future Planning Consultancy Ltd, which was submitted along with the application to Blackburn with Darwen Council. Situated along the main road of Darwen, the two-storey property features a bar and seating areas on the ground floor, with a flat above. It is surrounded by terraced dwellings on all four sides.
While the site is not within a designated center, the proposal for a small retail unit, spanning just 110 square meters, aligns with the local plan’s recognition of the importance of small-scale shopping provision in meeting day-to-day household needs, particularly in older residential areas. Despite being over 1.5 miles away from Darwen town center, the introduction of a retail unit is not expected to undermine its vitality, given the size and scale of the proposal.
Furthermore, the conversion project is anticipated to generate employment opportunities for local residents, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development in the area. Additionally, it aims to enhance consumer choice within the locality, addressing the needs of residents who may otherwise have limited access to retail amenities.
Indeed, the proposed transformation of The Swan public house into a retail unit and residential flat signifies a strategic endeavor to inject vitality into a dormant property, thereby addressing the changing demands of the local community. Through this adaptive reuse, Umer Zubair endeavors to not only rejuvenate the immediate surroundings but also stimulate economic advancement and elevate the living standards of Darwen’s residents.
Repurposing the building to incorporate both commercial and residential spaces reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban development. By diversifying the usage of the property, Zubair aims to create a vibrant hub that caters to multiple needs within the community. The introduction of a retail unit promises convenient access to essential goods and services, enhancing the neighborhood’s convenience and accessibility. Simultaneously, the provision of a residential flat offers an opportunity for individuals to reside in close proximity to amenities, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Moreover, this initiative holds the potential to catalyze economic growth within the area. The establishment of a retail unit is expected to generate employment opportunities, thereby stimulating local commerce and contributing to the region’s prosperity. Additionally, the revitalization of a previously underutilized property can attract further investment and development, leading to a ripple effect of positive economic outcomes for Darwen.
Beyond its economic implications, the proposed transformation also carries significant social benefits. By revitalizing a vacant property, Zubair aims to create a more vibrant and attractive environment for residents and visitors alike. The presence of a bustling retail unit and residential accommodation can enhance the neighborhood’s sense of vitality and community spirit, fostering social interaction and cohesion.
Ultimately, the overarching goal of this endeavor is to enhance the overall quality of life for individuals residing in Darwen. By repurposing The Swan public house into a multi-functional space that meets the diverse needs of the community, Zubair seeks to create a sustainable and thriving environment for current and future generations. Through thoughtful urban regeneration initiatives such as this, Darwen can continue to evolve as a dynamic and desirable place to live, work, and thrive.