Plans revealed for former Lloyds bank in Leigh

Plans have been submitted to convert the former Lloyds on Leigh’s Broadway. The bank is one of many that have closed in the town.

In May 2019 Lloyds bank announced it would close three days a week before closing for good before the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

BDA Architecture have now lodged plans on behalf of brand Pizza Pizza.

The application lays out plans to build a single storey rear extension, install a flue and a new shop sign on the front.

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Leigh resident Neil Gracie said: “I would prefer if we could keep the local banks but I don’t mind that.

“I’m happy to see any business open. I think I would rather a cafe with seating outside because that’s more social but if it keeps the economy going I’m all for it.”

Ron Sverdloff, who lives on High Street, added: “We have got to face reality. A lot of shops are becoming empty.

“It seems all town centres are becoming dining centres, but if it helps the economy I’m all for it.

“Any business that can make a go of things and contribute to the chancellor – brilliant.

“We all need the economy to go forward and we have to move along with the times.”

Leigh ward councillor Peter Wexham also welcomed the plans but raised concerns about customers littering in the area.

He said: “All the banks have just been disappearing.

“It’s better to have something in there than an empty shop.

“Most of these places want to be open in the middle of the night and people chuck their rubbish in the road.

“But I welcome having more businesses open. There has to be something so it may as well be that.”

In the planning application, BDA Architecture stated the proposals would be a “positive solution to rejuvenate the existing tired vacant unit” as they look to the council to approve plans.

Southend Council will have the final say on whether the plans get the go ahead.