Developers have modified plans to turn a prime high street site into a reception area for student flats, following concerns.

A proposal to turn the ground floor of the former Barretts showroom into a reception area, rather than shops or a restaurant, angered Canterbury business leaders who said the prominent site is a “gateway” to the city and should be protected for retail use.

In a bid to alleviate these worries, developers now propose including a ground-floor coffee shop and meeting rooms that may be used by the public.

The former car showroom at the end of the High Street was taken over by Paul Roberts Developments last January and is being transformed into 143 students flats.

Plans originally stated its ground floor would be transformed into a restaurant, wine bar or shops, and last year, proposals were submitted for a swish new eatery.

After no restaurants expressed interest, the developer decided to turn the ground floor into a reception for students.

But the plans sparked “concerns” from leader of the city council’s head of property and regeneration, and council leader Ben Fitter-Harding.

Chief executive of Westgate Hall, Clare Millett, was among business leaders who also opposed the plans, calling the change of use “detrimental to the visitor experience”.

Following a meeting with council representatives, developers have rethought the plans.

If given the green light, the site’s ground floor will now incorporate a coffee shop, meeting rooms that can be booked by community groups and a reception for students.

Planners say the communal space is “critical” for students’ wellbeing, and will be key during the summer when the accommodation will be used as a “high quality boutique hotel”.

Paul Roberts, of Paul Roberts Developments, said: “Clearly from the council’s point of view it was important that this is a ‘lively’ elevation, and not a ‘dead’ elevation.

“They made some very constructive suggestions, and one of those was allowing public access. We’ve modified our plans so it can be open to the public. We’re very, very pleased with what we proposed. We’re really excited about the project.”

Planning consultant Mike Goddard, of Goddard Planning, added: “Our initial intention was to try and attract a restaurant use.

“We and our agents approached a number of restaurant chains who were seeking to relocate to Canterbury.

“However, in spite of the premises being marketed continuously since 2018 by our agents BTF Partnership, there has been no serious interest and no offers. Consequently, we decided to withdraw that application and consider other options.”

Mr Goddard says a number of shops were also approached, but to no avail.

“Our revised proposals will create a vibrant mix of café, reception, meeting and gathering uses which will contribute towards the vibrancy of the area and the local community,” he added.

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