Plans to transform a County Durham church hall into a residential property have been approved by the council.

The conversion of the Grade II listed church hall, located in Hawthorn, Romaldkirk, includes a single-storey extension, the addition of a first-floor window and door to the north elevation, solar panels, and rooflights.

These proposals have been modified from a previous application approved in 2020, which allowed for the conversion of the church hall into two residential units.

Current plans now aim to convert the building into a single dwelling, incorporating various changes to the design to include more sustainability features.

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Planning officials have described the new extension as "contemporary" and have stated that it will be largely situated at the rear of the building.

As such, it is expected to have a minimal visual impact on the exterior of the structure.

Given the building's listed status, the council took into consideration the potential impact on the historical significance of the structure.

It concluded that the proposed changes, including the installation of solar panels and windows, are acceptable and would not negatively impact the building's historic fabric.

The public consultation process saw no comments, objections, or support.

Durham County Council has approved the proposal with conditions related to the use of materials and the preservation of the building's historical character.

Approval has been granted with conditions to ensure compliance with the approved plans and local policies, including the County Durham Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework.

The work on the church hall must begin within three years from the date of consent, and it must adhere to the approved plans.

All external materials require approval, as do detailed plans for windows and doors.

The design of any external hard surfacing or walls must also receive prior approval.

Before the work begins, a form confirming the start and end dates of the development must be submitted.