Disused bank in Ringwood set to become language school

The old Barclays building in Ringwood High Street has stood empty since June last year, when it became one of the latest banks in the New Forest to close.

The proposed new school will create 11 jobs, with up to 50 students using the facility at any one time.

The application prompted nine letters of support from people who said the scheme would provide a useful facility, bring business to the town centre, and result in more people using public transport facilities.

Now, New Forest District Council has approved plans to convert the building into three classrooms.

Plans to turn the former Barclays bank in Ringwood High Street into a language school have been approved (Image: Newsquest)

A council report said students were also likely to use other town centre facilities, thus supporting the viability of the High Street.

The report acknowledged that the council's conservation officer had raised concerns about a new roof light window on the front of the building, but said an existing parapet meant it would be largely hidden from public view. 

"The visual impact of the window would be extremely minor."

READ MORE: Support pours in for plan to turn former bank in Ringwood High Street into language school for up to 50 students

The report added: "Notwithstanding the historic sensitivity of the site, it is considered that the proposal would preserve the character and appearance of the Ringwood Conservation Area.

"The surrounding area is largely commercial in nature.

"In this context, it is not considered the proposed use would generate levels of noise and activity that would be harmful to the amenity of neighbouring premises.

"Provided the use operates during the proposed hours of operation, it is not considered the proposal would be harmful to the amenities of adjacent properties."

Plans to turn the former Barclays bank in Ringwood High Street into a language school have been approved (Image: Newsquest)

Plans to convert the bank were submitted earlier this year.

UK Guardians, which is based in nearby Bransgore, said the new facility would  offer lessons in Spanish, French, and Chinese, plus sign language.

READ MORE: Application to turn part of former HSBC bank in Lymington High Street into seven hotel rooms

Samantha Swyer was among the Ringwood residents who voiced their support for the application.

She said: "The conversion of the old bank into a centre for language learning will provide an educational resource for international students learning English and local residents interested in other languages."

Ally Rider added: "This is a great idea.

"Works to uplift and improve the building will reflect positively on the High Street and utilise one of the many empty storefronts we sadly have in town. This will also increase footfall and business for shops, cafés, and eateries."

Tracey Joy said: "Every small business in Ringwood would benefit from more people coming into the town."