Plans to transform a former convenience store on Braidholm Road in Giffnock into a new café have been rejected by planners. The store, previously known as Frankie’s and in operation for 50 years before closing two years ago, was the subject of a planning application submitted earlier this year.
The proposed plans included dividing the two units on the premises and converting one unit into a café. However, after a site inspection, it was found that some of the proposed changes, such as the installation of a new internal partition, had already been completed.
The café was intended to offer seating, a kitchen area, and restrooms, with a focus on sit-in trade as well as a small take-out option. The menu was planned to feature speciality coffees, cold drinks, breakfast, brunch, and lunch items.
Despite the potential benefits of the new café, the plans received four objections from the community. Concerns were raised about potential odours, noise, ventilation, waste storage, and parking congestion. As a result, planners listed three main reasons for refusing the application.
Firstly, the loss of a street-level retail unit was seen as a potential detriment to the Braidholm Neighbourhood Centre. The planners were not convinced that there was no demand for a retail space in the area. Additionally, they were not confident that a café would not negatively impact the residential accommodations above the premises. Lastly, the proposed plans did not adequately address waste storage facilities on the site.
The closure of Frankie’s in 2022 had already caused a stir in the local community, with the owner attributing the shutdown to a major Scottish Water project that disrupted passing trade. Despite reassurances from Scottish Water about the long-term benefits of the project, the closure of Frankie’s had a significant impact on both residents and businesses in the area.
While the idea of revitalizing the former store into a café may have seemed promising, it is clear that there are still concerns and challenges that need to be addressed before moving forward with any new development on the site. Planners will need to carefully consider the impact on the neighborhood and ensure that any future plans are in line with the needs and concerns of the community.