WHITCHURCH residents can look forward to a new dining experience and floral boutique under one roof if a new planning application is approved.

The application proposes to transform the former Paynes Print Shop and Velvet Rose space at 1 Church Street into a unique restaurant and florist combination.

Whitchurch residents and owners of the property Ed and Martina Keelan are behind the project.

Martina, a renowned UK private chef who currently offers intimate dining experiences from private residences, is hoping to open a dedicated space to cater to larger groups following her success and growing clientele.

READ MORE: Latest applications submitted to Basingstoke borough council

The plan involves creating a commercial kitchen and dining room within the building, and accommodating up to 16 guests.

The restaurant planned as a dinner club concept would operate for one to three nights per week, with opening hours between 6pm and 11pm. 

A retail space for a florist will also be established within the building, along with toilet facilities.

Upstairs, office spaces will be revamped into an open-plan shared workspace.

Both the restaurant and florist will operate under the existing Class E use for the building.

The application seeks approval for two key modifications: installation of a kitchen extractor system to serve the restaurant and a new fire escape door leading to the rear courtyard and Winchester Street.

To read more about the application and comment on it, search with reference number 24/00917/FUL on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council's planning portal.