Business / Permission given to turn Lerwick pub into flats
THE OWNER of Lerwick pub Captain Flint’s has been given planning permission to turn the town centre building into rental accommodation.
The plans, from building owner Ian Cunynghame, would see three apartments and three self-contained en-suite bedrooms created in the two-storey building.
He is aiming to tap into the short-stay rental market as he looks to move on from the pub trade.
The plans have now been approved by Shetland Islands Council.
Planners said as they approved listed building consent for the proposals: “Given that this building has undergone a substantial amount of internal works in the past before it was listed that has resulted in the loss of almost all internal historic fabric, it is considered that the proposed development to convert the first and second floors of the building into flats and en-suite bedrooms for short term let is acceptable.
“No changes are proposed by this application to the external fabric of the building and the existing windows will remain. It is therefore considered that the proposed development will have no adverse impact on the character or integrity of this Category C listed building, nor will it affect negatively the surrounding area. The building will remain in use and therefore cared for.”
Flint’s is described as the UK’s “most northerly pirate themed pub” and it overlooks Victoria Pier.
It is open seven days a week and offers numerous TV screens which show sporting events.
The main floor also plays host to live music on a stage – but there are worries that the pub’s possible closure could have a negative impact on the local rock gig scene.
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