A LIFESTYLE retailer has applied for permission to refurbish a city centre shop which is still trading.

Oliver Bonas submitted an application for listed building consent to carry out work on 33-37 New Canal on May 9.

This building is currently occupied by House of Tweed, a women's fashion shop in the Old George Mall.

National chain Oliver Bonas wants to repaint the existing shopfront and entrance doors green, lower the glazing on the facade and install new fascia signage with illuminated lettering.

The company also wants to refurbish the shop's ground floor.

Salisbury Journal: Staff at House of Tweed were unaware of the planning application.Staff at House of Tweed were unaware of the planning application. (Image: Newsquest)

Staff working in House of Tweed on Monday, May 13, had no idea Oliver Bonas had submitted a planning application for the site.

Owner Tom Bucknell assured the Journal he was unaware of the plans, suggesting he "had not been told anything".

Mr Bucknell said House of Tweed will not be closing.

Salisbury Journal: House of Tweed will not be closing, according to the owner.House of Tweed will not be closing, according to the owner. (Image: Newsquest)

The application comes over a year after the shop shut for almost three months on January 14, 2023, with then-assistant manager Jenny Stokes quoting rising rent and rates.

However, the shop returned on March 13 after owner Tom Bucknell reached an agreement with the landlord and obtained a short-term contract.

A "couple" of staff were laid off and Mr Bucknell previously told the Journal the shop would "probably" remain until the end of 2023.

Oliver Bonas was founded by Oliver Tress 30 years ago and has grown to own more than 80 stores across the UK and Ireland. The chain closest to Salisbury is Southampton or Winchester.

The Journal has contacted Oliver Bonas for more information.