Plans for 24-hour cash machine outside Johnsons

A planning application (no. 20161260) has been submitted to Broadland District Council for the installation of an automated teller machine (ATM) outside Johnsons of Reepham, which houses the Post Office in Market Place.
 

 
The application submitted by New Wave Installations on behalf of Cardtronics UK, which trades as Cashzone, proposes that the 24-hour cash machine be installed through the shop front window to the left of the central entrance door.
 
The two-storey building is located within the Reepham conservation area and is a Grade II listed building. The applicant states that the ATM design will be kept as sympathetic as possible to the features of the conservation area and listed building.
 
The cash machine will be set at a height that makes it accessible for all users and has space to the front for a wheelchair. Free car parking is generally available around the store. The plans also call for two security bollards to be installed in the ground in front of the ATM as well as a non-illuminated sign.
 
Following the closure of the HSBC branch in Reepham in October 2015, ongoing discussions, led by the local Chamber of Commerce and Reepham Town Team, have been held with Cashzone for the provision of a replacement cash machine in the Market Place.
 
Use of the existing, listed telephone box outside the Bircham Centre had been suggested as one possibility, and BT made an application to install a combined public payphone and cash machine at the junction of Station Road and Market Place on Townsend Corner.
 
However, this was refused by Broadland, which said the proposed kiosk would be harmful to the character and appearance of the conservation area, and would lead to on-street parking in the immediate vicinity, causing interference with through-traffic at the busy road junction.
 
Although there is an existing 24-hour cash machine outside the Spar in Ollands Road, it is hoped the installation of an ATM in Reepham town centre will help encourage people to withdraw cash to use within the surrounding area, thereby supporting local businesses, some of which are reporting a downturn in trade since the bank closure.
 
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