Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 6 September 2022

AN INDEPENDENT Irish coffee company are looking at setting up shop inside of an empty travel agents in Blaby village centre, according to new planning documents.

Insomnia Coffee Company are seeking permission from Blaby District Council (BDC) to install illuminated storefront signage atop the former Co-op Travel on Enderby Road.

Insomnia is Ireland’s leading independent coffee shop chain, and it was founded in 1997. Since then, they have been “rapidly expanding” into the United Kingdom.

They already have two existing Leicestershire branches. One is located in Coalville’s Belvoir Shopping Centre, whilst the other is in Market Harborough town centre.

If plans are given the ‘go ahead’, they would mark the newest occupants of the row of shops on Enderby Street.

The last to move in there was American pizza delivery chain Papa Johns, who took on the neighbouring former Santander bank branch four months ago back in May.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Services stated that the signage would have “minimal impact” on the amenity of those living in close proximity to the town centre.

And, a County Highways representative explained that the plans “would appear to be no material impact on the public highway”, and as a result, the Highway Authority have no comments to make.

The plan is still “awaiting decision” from the District Council at the time of publication (Tuesday, 6 September).