PLANS have been agreed for the change of use at the former Everything 2 Party store in High Street, Old Harlow. According to the plans, the building is Grade II listed and is currently vacant following the relocation of the party store, a party supplies and gift shop that had operated there for several months reports the Local Democracy Reporter.

Prior to being run as a party wear shop, it had been vacant for approximately 18 months after the closure of Nel’s Coffee Shop, a popular cafe that had operated for a number of years.

The new micropub is set to offer “a truly unique range of drinks” from local breweries and other drink producers, as well as a “carefully curated” range of bar snacks.

The new micropub will be closed Monday through Wednesday and open on Thursdays from noon to 10pm, noon to 10.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 8pm on Sundays. 

The plans also state: “The proposal will bring a currently vacant retail unit into beneficial use as a contemporary micropub, along with the contribution this will make to maintaining the long-term economic viability of the Old Harlow neighbourhood centre. Pubs inherently contribute to social cohesion and community building, functioning as a meeting place and a place for social gatherings, and are considered community infrastructure. 

“We would strive to build an inclusive atmosphere and be welcoming to all. The proposal results in no harmful impact on habitats and species, and as such is considered entirely neutral in this aspect. Given the site location being within easy access to public transport, the proposed development is unlikely to give rise to any unsustainable increase in private car journeys.”

The council officer’s report states: “The proposed development is acceptable with regards to design, character and heritage considerations. The proposed change of use would preserve the significance of the listed building as well as the character and appearance of the conservation area.”