OBJECTIONS have been submitted for a Japanese restaurant's work on a city centre building. 

Kyoto Kitchen recently moved from Parchment Street to 5 Bridge Street, the former Bridge Street House and for many years The Cricketers.

The larger unit seats around 75 people inside, nearly twice the previous number of covers, with more private dining options and Winchester’s first Kashi Sushi counter.

Four objections have been submitted to a planning application for a new external link way, re-cladding, signage, internal remodelling and modernisation.

Rachael Batchelor, of Water Lane, said: “The changes would result in a loss of amenity, it would compromise the effectiveness of my drive and result in a loss of privacy. Moreover the proposed design is unsympathetic to the building and area.”

George Smith, of Worthy Lane, said: “The property is located in a very prominent position in an area which has retained much of its historic character and is also very close to one of the gateways to the city.

READ MORE: Kyoto Kitchen prepares for soft launch of restaurant in Bridge Street

“Due to the location of the property this application has an astonishingly large visual impact on the surrounding area, which includes many heritage assets such as listed buildings and monuments. It cannot be overstated how important the City Bridge and the City Mill are to Winchester.

“The unsympathetic modern design proposed would undoubtedly damage the visual attractiveness of the building and the area, it would not be to the benefit of the conservation area and the visual harmony would be lost.”

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James Green, of Southgate Street, said: “I commend the efforts made by WCC and its partners to develop the city with high-quality regeneration projects that complement their surroundings. We must not allow inappropriate development, such as this, to undermine all the hard work and funds invested in the regeneration projects.

“The existing facade of the building harmoniously blends with the surroundings, particularly with the City Mill and 6 Bridge Street. Introducing a new facade with modern design, materials, and features will disrupt the cohesive character of the area and undermine the historic ambiance that makes it so special. The effects will be felt far beyond the damage to the building.”

The scheme's planning statement said: “The aim is to develop the historic character of the building as a former coach house and give it an understated Japanese feel, like Ryokan in Kyoto, Japan. Modern and stylish whilst respecting the historic use and character.

SEE ALSO: Kyoto Kitchen announces it's moving after 11 years in Parchment Street

“The use class of the building will not change, it will still be a bar and restaurant with rooms. 

“The existing internal layout of the property comprises a large open plan area to the ground floor including bar, dining spaces, kitchen and storage, there is a separate outbuilding within the external courtyard, currently used as a separate dining space.”

To see more details about the plans online, search 23/01174/FUL on Winchester City Council's planning portal.