WINE lovers in Gillingham can rejoice after plans to create a new wine bar in the High Street have been approved.

The former Mayflowers shop at 2a High Street can now be turned into a “relaxed continental wine bar” that will double as a light breakfast and lunch spot with a limited deli offering.

This comes after plans to convert the former picture framing shop across the road, Scenes, into a wine bar were withdrawn after the sale fell through.

As part of the plans, the Mayflowers sign at the front of the building will be replaced but no internal or external structural alterations have been proposed.

A new black-board style sign, drawing attention to specials, will be added to the external west-facing wall in keeping with the blackboard signs seen on nearby pubs the Phoenix and Red Lion.

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The new bar will serve a limited menu featuring cheese, charcuterie, and a small range of pre-prepared meals.

No kitchen will be necessary as the food offering will focus mainly on the deli and light bites, switching to a more wine bar atmosphere in the evenings.

The space outside the front of the building will see a single table and chairs placed for customers who prefer to sit outside.

The plans state that they expect to see a maximum of 40 customers at any one time, with the main seating area able to seat up to 30 people.

“The business is intended to be quiet, calm and relaxing, typically playing gentle ambient music,” the plans said.

Gillingham Town Council supported the plans when they were discussed at its planning committee meeting on Monday (June 23).

They said the new business would enhance the town centre economy, create new jobs and revitalise a vacant high street property.

Gillingham Chamber of Commerce said it was approached by several members expressing their support for the plans.

They said: “The introduction of a wine bar, restaurant, and delicatessen will stimulate high street regeneration and enhance economic activity in our area.

“Moreover, this new business will create valuable employment opportunities and provide a much-needed social space for residents.

“It aims to foster community engagement and support local food and drink producers.”

In Dorset Council’s decision notice, officer Jamie Francis said: “The site is considered a highly sustainable location for such a venue, as it is easily accessible by foot and is likely to encourage residents to walk to this venue rather than use private motor vehicles to reach similar venues located further afield.”

To view the decision notice and plans in full, visit the planning section of Dorset Council’s website and search reference P/FUL/2025/02735.

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Are you happy with the decision? Let us know in the comments.