Plans to build flats above a recently closed pornography and sex toy shop near the town centre have been withdrawn.

Four flats were planned above the former pornography and sex toy shop ‘Private Shop’ at 108 Southampton Street.

But officers advised the developer the application was “attracting reasons for refusal in respect of design/heritage impacts, quality of accommodation, and the lack of affordable housing contribution”.

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Subsequently, the applicant decided to withdraw the application.

Similar plans were also withdrawn in September.

The developer already has permission to convert part of 108 Southampton Street into three flats, whilst retaining the shop.

The developer has since sought permission to go further, seeking two-storey rear extensions and a dormer to take the number of flats up to four.

But plans have now twice been withdrawn, in September 2020 and March 2021.

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The latest application sought permission for rear extensions at the ground and first floor and a dormer added on the second floor to allow for four residential flats, with the existing retail space being retained.

The building was host to adult entertainment store Private Shop for more than a decade.

The retail unit would have remained on the ground floor, with a separate lobby to be created for the flats, under the plans.