A TOURIST information centre on Islay has been given the go-ahead for a new shopfront at its Bowmore premises.
The School Street building was the subject of a bid for planning permission by Islay Development Initiative to Argyll and Bute Council.
Officers from the authority have now given the application the go-ahead after no objections or expressions of support were received from the public.
An official said in a handling report: “The property is a detached building, sited to the rear of an open amenity area in the centre of Bowmore, which is occupied as the local tourist information centre.
“The proposed works to the unit are for alterations to the existing shopfront and an internal fit out, to create a local post office and shop. The property is also within the Bowmore Conservation Area.
“As the property is not listed, the proposed internal works do not require assessment as part of this application, as they do not constitute development. The only element requiring planning permission relates to the reconfiguration of the shopfront on the east elevation.
“The proposal involves the removal of the existing single-glazed door and windows and their replacement with a new commercial double-glazed shopfront and entrance door.
“The new shopfront will be finished in anodised aluminium, with a powder-coated painted finish. The glazing will comprise of toughened and laminated glass to reduce the risk of impact damage.”
The officer added: “It is considered that the development would improve the appearance of the building itself and would preserve the character of this part of the Bowmore Conservation Area.”
