Wren Kitchens gets go-ahead to make changes to new Hereford shop

The unit left empty by Harveys, the furniture chain which collapsed into administration in July 2020, will have a new glazed front as Wren wanted to modernise the site.

Planning documents submitted with the planning application to Herefordshire Council said Wren Kitchens was "looking at occupying the unit and making enhancements to suit their brand and proposed store layout".

Wren Kitchens, which has around 91 shops across the UK, had the application for Unit C at Hereford Retail Park, in Newtown Road, approved by council planners.

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The firm said it wanted to modernise the existing glazing and doors, consultants working on the scheme said, adding: "The current store has a swing entrance door, for DDA compliance this will be updated to an electronic sliding door for ease of all customers of all abilities."

"The glazing to the side will be updated as part of the proposal.

"To the west elevation, the existing fire escape door will be removed and incorporated into a larger window opening to improve through views into the store from the pavement. The ramp, rainwater pipe and paving will be made good as part of this works."

A drawing of what the new shopfront should look like. Picture: PolkeyCollins/Wren Kitchens/Herefordshire Council

Consultants said the expansion to Hereford would create employment opportunities, and would develop the area.

Case officer Ollie Jones said in his report the plans would only result in minor changes to the shopfront, and he considered the design and scale was acceptable.

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Herefordshire Council also gave the green light to Wren Kitchens for four new and replacement internally illuminated fascia signs and one replacement non-illuminated fascia sign.

Since the initial application, the firm has asked Herefordshire Council if it can install a LED advertising board on the front of the building.

An artist's impression of the new LED display at the new Wren Kitchens store in Hereford. Picture: Wren Ktichens/Herefordshire Council

Plans show the sign would be 4.08 metres wide, and 2.16 metres high.

The council aims to make a decision by May 13, with highways already saying it will not object to the idea.