Bradley Hall has assisted in an off-market deal for longstanding client, Bell’s Fish & Chips for a new restaurant and takeaway in Seaham.
As part of Bell’s multi-million-pound expansion plan, the fish and chip franchise has purchased other freehold property in Durham and has plans to open in Seaham’s old Barclays bank in the spring of 2023. Opening in this new location will bring Bell’s network of outlets to six across the region.
Bradley Hall’s group director, Peter Bartley and associate director, Joseph l’Anson led the off-market deal with the London based landlord of the former Barclays to ensure a suitable client was acquired to fill the space.
Planning permission is currently being sought for change of use of the former Barclays Bank building at North Terrace, Seaham into a restaurant and takeaway. Plans also include external façade changes and erection of a 2m palisade fence to rear of site to form secure bin store area.
The property is located close to the town centre, north of the Byron Place shopping centre and opposite Seaham harbour.
Barclays Bank closed the Seaham branch in February 2022.
The layout of the existing building will remain as existing with the primary changes coming from the change of use along with the internal changes required to form the restaurant seating and cooking areas.
The general appearance of the existing building will remain unchanged and no increase in footprint is proposed with this application. Cosmetic changes are proposed to the building elevations as well as the introduction of additional rooflights.
Peter Bartley, group director at Bradley Hall said, “Bradley Hall has been instructed in all of Bell’s Fish & Chips acquisitions and leases over the last 15 years and it has been brilliant to secure this site for the firm also.
“Graham Kennedy and Bell’s Fish & Chips have ambitious growth plans for their business and Bradley Hall aim to continue to support them every step of the way.”
Joseph l’Anson, associate director at Bradley Hall said, “Bell’s Fish & Chips has been a favourite of customers for over 60 years, regularly welcoming in crowds and serving the public high-quality fish and chips. We are delighted to assist Graham, who is a long-term client of the firm, with this project.”
