A former bar in Newquay town centre is to be converted into a residential property.

The owner of Selkies Café Bar in Cheltenham has been advised that its change of use application from commercial, business and service to three dwelling houses will not require prior approval of the planning authority. The bar was closed down following a fall in trade.

The applicant said: “Newquay has a wide selection of coffee shops and bars most of which are in a more dominant location.

“Selkies is located up a side of mostly residential house. We have struggled to get passing trade up the hill and through the front door, and holidaymakers tend not to venture off the main road.

“We also have no outdoor space or views so in the summer months customers choose venues which will allow them to enjoy the views and weather.

“Overall hospitality is facing many challenges currently as it has seen a drop in customers as a result of the current economy and I know that many businesses have noticed the same impact.”

Chartered architects Artchart on behalf of the applicant, added: “The applicant saw a notable downturn during the summer of 2023 including the bedroom lettings, down 30 per cent, which then became more difficult entering the autumn with increased utility bills, wages and so forth not making it profitable to open.

“The property has been marketed since August 2023 and has been reduced in asking price but there remains no interest. The applicant has therefore decided that the best exit strategy is to sell their existing family home and convert this property into their own residence.

“The proposed change of use will see the property revert to its historic use being that of a private residential terraced house.

“It will have no detrimental impact to the immediate properties.”