19th March 2026
Mint Velvet to be replaced by COOK
The District Council has given its consent for minor changes that will enable a Cook store to open where Mint Velvet is currently trading in the Upper High Street. Cook Trading sells frozen foods with a focus on prepared meals. The applicant is aiming to keep the existing frontage and provide traditional, hand-painted signage to preserve the character of this valued Listed Building.
Signs of progress at former Co-Op
An application to sign-off technical matters relating to the planning permission on the former High Street Co-op in Thame has been made this week. If the technical matters are approved the developer would be able to start work, possibly beginning with the demolition of the existing buildings to the rear of the High Street. Planning permission has already been granted to form three separate shops with traditional frontages on the High Street, a courtyard and seating area behind and shops / offices in a new building that will overlook a widened alley and Southern Road car park. Flats will also be provided both above the new build and above the existing buildings on the High Street.
Lidl planning application ongoing
The application submitted by Lidl for a new food store on the CPM site off Aylesbury Road is still ongoing. Some progress has been made, but planning permission cannot be granted or refused until key consultees (such as the Environment Agency) have responded or are satisfied with the submitted documents.
