WINCHESTER City Council has refused a plan to demolish the shop fronts of what was once Beales in The Brooks.

It has been reported that a “major retailer” could soon move into the major unit which has been vacant since Beales closed down last year.

As part of this, the retailer who is currently not named wanted to demolish the shopfronts in order to strip out the shop.

A planning application which was received by Winchester City Council from managing agent, Savilles, who are acting on behalf of the owner of the building stated: “The unit is vacant and the owner wishes to demolish the shop fronts in order to facilitate the shell and core works required by the new retailer.

“An application for the formation of new shop fronts and signage will be submitted independently by the new retailer. We would be appreciative if this application could be determined by the Council as quickly as possible.”

However, Winchester City Council turned down this plan, and Savilles confirmed to the Chronicle that they will be working on a new application for the shop fronts.