Leigh MP Jo Platt objects to plans for new barber shop

A retrospective planning application has been submitted to Wigan Council seeking permission to convert a former dog grooming salon on Chapel Street into a barber shop, with a self-contained flat above and alterations to the shopfront and windows.

In a formal objection lodged with the council, Ms Platt said approval would create a sixth barber shop on Chapel Street and questioned whether the proposal would contribute positively to the area's long-term vitality.

She wrote: "A healthy and vibrant centre depends upon a varied mix of retail, service, leisure and employment uses."

The Leigh and Atherton MP said there were already five established barber shops operating on Chapel Street within a relatively short distance of the application site, as well as other hairdressers and personal service businesses in the wider town centre.

Leigh MP Jo Platt (Image: Nikki Powell)

Ms Platt argued the proposal would further concentrate one type of business rather than broaden the range of services available to residents and visitors.

She also raised concerns about what she described as a lack of evidence demonstrating a need for another barber shop, and said the application did not show whether alternative commercial uses for the premises had been explored.

In her submission, she questioned the description of the proposed development as a "lockup barber's shop", stating that the term was not clearly defined within the application documents.

The application has also attracted objections from local residents.

One objector wrote: "Leigh is trying to improve by offering variety and choice to its residents and another barber is a step backwards."

Another said they were concerned that Leigh town centre already had a high number of barber shops and argued the council should encourage "a wider variety of businesses and services that better meet the needs of local residents".

Leigh Central councillor Tina Kennedy has also publicly voiced opposition to the proposal, saying she intended to object and urging residents to submit their views to the council.

In a social media post, Cllr Kennedy said a number of constituents had contacted her about the application and expressed concerns about the prospect of another barber shop opening in the town centre.

The application seeks permission for the conversion of a dog grooming salon with accommodation above to a barber shop with a self-contained flat above, together with a new shopfront and alterations to fenestration.

A decision on the application has not yet been made.

A Wigan Council spokesperson said: "The council has a legal duty to assess every application on its individual merits, taking into account national planning policy, local planning policies, submissions from stakeholders and the local community, and relevant material considerations.

"The demand or viability of a prospective business may form part of these assessments in certain circumstances."