Former jewellers could become two shops under new plans
The former Fisher and Co premises, in Ely. - Credit: Archant
A businessman has applied to convert a former jewellers into two separate shops.
Jason Watson is seeking permission from East Cambridgeshire District Council to renovate and divide the former Fisher and Co Watchmakers and Jewellers premises, in Buttermarket, Ely.
The business was owned and managed by Howard Zelley and his family, and had been in Ely since the 1950s.
It ceased trading in the city on October 20, with Mr Zelley moving to manage the family’s other jewellery shop, FJ Zelley, in St Giles Street, Norwich.
In a statement to planners, agents acting for Mr Watson said that dividing the premises would “create job opportunities in the town centre and hopefully be more affordable for small business with rent and rates”.
“This will hopefully prevent more empty retail units in the town centre and help attract more people to shop locally,” agents added.
A decision on the plans is expected within the next eight weeks. To view the plans, or to have a say, visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk
