THE former NatWest building in Blandford is one step closer to having a new lease of life thanks to now-approved plans.
The Grade II listed building at 23 to 25 Market Place has been vacant since NatWest closed its doors in August 2023.
But it is now set to be split into two commercial units consisting of a café/delicatessen/restaurant and an accountancy office, with existing accommodation to be retained on the floors above.
The layout and design of the café are expected to be submitted in a future application.
The accountancy office will be occupied by Harney & Co, a long-established professional accountancy firm in Blandford which currently occupies the first and second floor offices at the adjoining 21 Market Place.
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Dorset Council’s planning officer said in the decision notice that the plans would “add to the vitality and viability” of Blandford’s town centre.
Applicant Blandford Revival Limited said they believe the plans would make a “positive and sympathetic contribution to the listed building, conservation area and viability of the town centre”.
These plans come despite efforts by those in the Blandford community to create a hub for small businesses at the site, with businesses banding together to cover the rent of the building and give residents a one-stop shop to support businesses and increase footfall in the town.
To view the plans, the decision notice and its conditions in full, search reference P/FUL/2025/02463 on the planning section of the Dorset Council website.
Surely blandford Doesn’t need any more cafes ? Can’t they think about improving blandford not keeping it the same cafes and charity shops