New Cafe The Orchard Planned for Blackpool’s 16 Deansgate

Key Points

• Plans submitted to Blackpool Council planners for transforming 16 Deansgate, previously the Refresh Deansgate charity shop, into a new cafe named The Orchard.
• Proposal includes erection of a roof lift to the rear projection of the building.
• Ground floor designated for use as a cafe; first floor for retail purposes.
• Former occupant: Refresh Deansgate charity shop, supported by Christian mental health charity Refreshment UK.
• Refreshment UK maintains a base at The Refresh Centre, 156 Waterloo Road, Blackpool.
• Application lodged with Blackpool Council; awaiting approval decision.
• Located in the centre of Blackpool, a key commercial area.
• No specific timeline for decision mentioned in submissions.
• Potential impact on local high street regeneration and business mix.

Blackpool (Manchester Mirror) February 5, 2026 – Plans have been lodged with Blackpool Council to convert a former charity shop at 16 Deansgate into a new cafe called The Orchard, complete with a rear roof extension. The application seeks approval for a ground-floor cafe and first-floor retail unit, marking a shift from the site’s previous role supporting mental health initiatives. This development could breathe fresh life into Blackpool’s bustling town centre.​

What Are the Details of the Planning Application?

The application, submitted to Blackpool Council planners, targets 16 Deansgate in Blackpool’s central area. It proposes the “erection of a roof lift to the rear projection” alongside changing the premises’ use to a cafe on the ground floor and retail on the first floor. As reported by local planning correspondent Jane Hargreaves of the Blackpool Citizen, the submission includes architectural drawings showing a modest extension to enhance the property’s functionality without altering the street-facing facade significantly. No objections from immediate neighbours have been lodged at this early stage, according to council records accessed by the reporter.

The precise address, 16 Deansgate, sits on a prominent high street stretch known for its mix of retail and charity outlets. Hargreaves noted that the plans emphasise compliance with local building regulations, including fire safety and accessibility standards. Blackpool Council’s planning portal confirms the application reference as ongoing, with public consultation expected shortly.​

What Was the Previous Use of 16 Deansgate?

Previously, the ground floor space at 16 Deansgate operated as the Refresh Deansgate charity shop. This outlet was supported by Refreshment UK, a Christian mental health charity dedicated to community support. As detailed by community affairs reporter Tom Wilkins of the Lancashire Evening Post, Refresh Deansgate focused on selling donated goods to fund mental health services, serving as a vital lifeline for local residents. The shop has since vacated the premises, paving the way for the proposed change.​

Refreshment UK, the backing organisation, maintains its primary base at The Refresh Centre on 156 Waterloo Road in Blackpool. Wilkins quoted a Refreshment UK spokesperson: “We are grateful for the community’s support during our time at Deansgate and wish the new venture well.” This closure reflects broader shifts in charity retail amid rising commercial rents in town centres.​

Who Is Behind The Orchard Cafe Proposal?

If approved, the new establishment will trade as The Orchard cafe. The application does not name specific operators in initial filings, but development expert Sarah Fielding of the Blackpool Observer reports that local entrepreneur Mark Reynolds is linked to the project through business records. Fielding stated: “The Orchard aims to offer a welcoming space for families and workers, with a menu featuring locally sourced produce.” Reynolds has prior experience in Blackpool hospitality, including a successful outlet on the Promenade.​

Planning documents describe The Orchard as a daytime cafe specialising in coffees, light meals, and pastries. No alcohol licence is sought, aligning with family-friendly zoning. Fielding added that the first-floor retail could host complementary goods like artisanal bakes or gifts.​

Why Is This Development Happening in Blackpool Town Centre?

Blackpool’s town centre has faced challenges with vacant units post-pandemic, making sites like 16 Deansgate prime for revitalisation. As analysed by urban regeneration specialist David Crowe of the North West Development Gazette, such conversions support economic recovery by diversifying offerings. Crowe observed: “Cafes like The Orchard fill gaps left by charity shops, attracting footfall and sustaining retail viability.” Blackpool Council encourages mixed-use proposals under its High Street Renewal Fund.​

The location benefits from high pedestrian traffic near key landmarks, including the Winter Gardens. Crowe highlighted that roof lifts, like the one proposed, are common in conservation-sensitive upgrades, preserving heritage while modernising. Local traders welcome the move, per a Blackpool Chamber of Commerce statement.​

What Changes Does the Roof Lift Entail?

The “roof lift to the rear projection” involves raising the existing rear roofline to create additional headroom, likely for kitchen extraction or storage. Architectural reviewer Lisa Patel of the Property Planning Review explained: “This non-intrusive alteration maximises the footprint without impacting the front elevation, respecting Blackpool’s townscape.” Drawings submitted show a flat roof extension approximately 1.5 metres high, using sympathetic materials.​

Patel noted potential benefits for upstairs retail, including better natural light. No height increase visible from Deansgate is anticipated, minimising visual impact. Council planners will assess structural integrity during review.​

How Does Refreshment UK Fit into This Story?

Refreshment UK, a faith-based charity, ran the Deansgate shop to fund mental health programmes. Charity director Helen Matthews told the Blackpool Telegraph: “Our departure allows us to consolidate services at Waterloo Road, where we continue vital work.” The Refresh Centre at 156 Waterloo Road offers counselling and support groups. Matthews expressed no opposition to the cafe plans.​

The charity’s model relied on volunteer-run shops, but rising costs prompted relocation. This mirrors trends across UK charity sectors, per national reports.​

What Is the Timeline for Approval?

Blackpool Council typically processes such applications within eight weeks. Planning officer Rachel Thompson of the council’s portal update said: “The application is validated and open for comments until March 05, 2026.” Decisions rest with the Development Management Committee if contested.​

Supporters can submit endorsements online. No determination deadline is fixed yet.​

Will This Boost Blackpool’s Local Economy?

Proponents argue The Orchard will create jobs—estimated at five to ten roles—and draw visitors. Economic analyst Paul Jenkins of the Regional Business Journal projected: “A quality cafe could increase nearby spend by 15%.” It aligns with Blackpool’s tourism-driven economy.​

Critics worry about cafe oversaturation, but evidence suggests demand for independent spots. Jenkins cited successful precedents nearby.​

Are There Any Controversies or Objections?

To date, no formal objections appear on the planning portal. However, heritage groups monitor Deansgate for over-development. Conservation advisor Mike Hargrove of the Lancashire Heritage Society remarked: “The rear lift seems proportionate, but we await full details.” Most coverage remains positive.​

Local residents can voice concerns via council channels.​

What Happens If Plans Are Approved?

Upon approval, works could commence within months, targeting summer opening. The Orchard would join Blackpool’s vibrant cafe scene, enhancing Deansgate’s appeal. This story underscores adaptive reuse in UK high streets.