A WOMAN is hoping to contribute to Worcester’s “growing cultural and artistic community,” by opening a city centre tattoo studio.
A planning application has been submitted to Worcester City Council to convert a ground floor commercial unit at 1 King Street, Worcester, into a tattoo studio.
The proposal seeks to change the use of the premises from Class E (commercial/business/service) to a mixed Class E and Sui Generis use, allowing it to operate as a tattoo studio while retaining the existing commercial use.
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The applicant, Rachel Cook, intends to establish a professional tattoo studio in the city centre.
In a design and access statement, Ms Cook said: “The proposed development seeks to bring a creative and professional tattoo studio to the heart of Worcester, supporting the town centre economy and contributing to its growing cultural and artistic community.”
The site is part of a traditional terrace within the Historic City Conservation Area, characterised by a mix of independent shops, cafes, and businesses. It sits just over the road from the Museum of Royal Worcester.
No external alterations are proposed, with internal changes limited to a reversible fit-out that will not affect the building’s structural integrity. The studio layout will include a reception area, open workspace, storage, and staff facilities.
Access to the unit is via a step from the pavement, but Miss Cook has stated that reasonable provision will be made for customers with mobility issues, despite the existing WC not being wheelchair accessible.
Worcester City Council’s heritage officer raised no objections to the proposal, noting that the change of use would not harm the character or setting of the conservation area or nearby listed buildings.
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Fiona Webb, heritage consultant, said: “The impact of the proposals on heritage assets will be neutral and the requirements of current conservation legislation, policy or guidance are considered to be met and there is therefore no objection to the approval of the application.”
Other consultees, including Worcestershire Regulatory Services and the council’s archaeology officer, also raised no concerns with the application.
The applicant has confirmed that any new signage will be designed in keeping with the historic character of the street and will be submitted for separate approval if required.