A former Darlington snooker and bingo hall will be demolished and used for new housing.

Plans for the new development, on Eldon Street, were approved by Darlington Borough Council.

The proposal details plans to demolish the two existing buildings on the site and build 12 three and four-bed homes. 

The former Powerplay snooker building also hosted the Darlington Deaf Club and Deaf Innovation organisation but is now vacant. Built in 1913 the building was constructed as The Scala Cinema, but ceased trading in 1962. It was then used as a bingo club, named Top Ten Bingo, and more recently as a snooker and pool hall. 

Its significance locally is reflected by its architectural and historic merit, the local planning authority said. While not listed, it is considered as a non-designated heritage asset. 

Read more: Is this farewell to Darlington's 100-year-old Scala cinema?

The Northern Echo:

All new homes on the site will be available at an ‘affordable rent’ via the registered provider North Star Housing Group.

A total of nine letters of objection were received from nearby residents, however. Concerns mentioned how the nearby Rise Carr Club is in worse condition, is empty, and would be more suitable for redevelopment. Others called for the building to be repurposed, one resident said: “The snooker hall is a nice old building that has historically been, and should again, be a centre for the community.”

The impact of the development on a nearby chip shop was also raised. “[The] business will suffer. Customers use the area at the front of the snooker hall as parking and this prevents disturbance to residents in the street. 

One objector called for a different housing layout. They said: “Do not need any more two bed houses as the local streets are full of these. Three bed adaptable homes would be better for the area.”

Recommended reading: 

Don't miss out on the latest news and stories. Subscribe to the The Northern Echo for just £5 for 5 months

However, several amendments were enforced as part of the planning application in response to residents’ concerns, such as additional off-road parking being included in the proposal to help alleviate traffic concerns.

Reacting to the approval, North Road councillor James Coe said: “As ward councillors, we were soon made aware that local residents were not keen on the proposal. We were pleased to be able to assist residents to engage with the objection process and make their voices heard.

“Following a careful review, we’re delighted that the final plan has received amendments that address the vast majority of the issues raised.”