A former bingo hall in Scunthorpe is set to be transformed into a modern self-storage facility following a successful planning appeal led by consultancy Boyer, part of the Leaders Romans Group (LRG).
The appeal, secured on behalf of property investor Ridgelift, overturns an earlier refusal and paves the way for the long-term reuse of a prominent but underused site in the North Lincolnshire town.
The project had faced hurdles due to the building’s designation as a community-use site under the local plan – a status that made a change of use particularly sensitive.
Boyer’s planning and design team engaged early with North Lincolnshire Council’s Chief Executive, Economic Development team, and planning officers to make the case that the former bingo hall was no longer viable or required for community purposes.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Following a detailed review, the Planning Inspectorate agreed with Boyer’s position, ruling that the loss of community use was justified and that the proposed self-storage scheme would deliver tangible economic benefits.
Nick Diment, Director at Boyer London, says the outcome highlights the value of a strategic, evidence-led approach to complex change-of-use cases.
He adds: “This is a great result and highlights the importance of a well-evidenced planning strategy and meaningful dialogue with local authorities.
“Despite the lack of a clear definition in policy of what qualifies as a ‘community use’, the Inspector recognised that ongoing use of the site in this way was no longer sustainable. We expect the debate around community use definitions to continue, but for now, this decision gives clarity for our client and a positive future for the site.”
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Hamish Macmillan, Director at Ridgelift, says the decision was “a very complex appeal case with significant planning precedents” and praised Boyer’s role in achieving consent.
And he says: “The team at Boyer delivered a major value add for the fund against all the odds.
“The planning consent will provide a long-term sustainable use for the site, delivering much-needed jobs and investment into the town.”
The approved scheme is expected to create new local employment opportunities while bringing fresh investment to Scunthorpe’s urban core.
