Dracula-themed bar approved in former post office
GoogleA Dracula-themed bar has been granted permission to open in a Grade II-listed former post office building in Whitby.
The conversion of the 18th Century property on Church Street has been approved by North Yorkshire Council.
Bram Stoker's novel Dracula, published in 1897, was said to have been inspired by the author's trip to Whitby in 1890.
Planning officers said the building had been vacant for a number of years and that the "modest" additions "do not significantly alter the significance" of the site.
The Whitby Crown venue is described by its owners as a site that "leans fully into Whitby's connection with Dracula" and a place where "gothic fiction and local heritage collide", according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Planning documents said Whitby Town Council had "expressed concern that the proposal does not appear to provide adequate accessibility", with the only toilet having "no clear step-free route".
However, planning officers said the proposal was considered appropriate.
They said internal alterations including fireproofing of timbers and the installation of a log burner did not raise any objections from the conservation officer.
"The proposed development would not result in structural alteration to the building or loss of historic fabric," a report said.
The development includes the installation of a new fascia signage board.
Officers said it would be placed over the existing early to mid-20th Century shopfront fascia sign, with the old sign "retained and concealed".
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