Plans to convert a North Yorkshire flat into a community and commercial space have been approved by the council.

The former caretaker's flat and community rooms in the Grassington Devonshire Institute, at 48 Main Street, Grassington, near Skipton, will be transformed into a mixed-use space.

The application, submitted by Grassington Parish Council, also includes plans to build a single-storey glazed link extension at the rear of the building, equipped with an accessible toilet and kitchenette.

Internal changes to improve accessibility are also part of the approved plans.

The council made the decision to grant full planning permission on Thursday, October 31.

Alterations, particularly the glazed link extension, are designed to have minimal visibility from public areas, ensuring the heritage character of the Grassington Conservation Area is maintained.

The improvements also meet Equality Act obligations by enhancing disabled access and facilities.

The proposal received no objections from the parish council, highways, fire officer, chief environmental health officer, or the general public.

The application was approved subject to certain conditions, which include the project being started within three years from the date of permission and being carried out in accordance with specific drawings received on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

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These drawings include the block plan, layout changes, and demolition details.

Spaces within the premises are limited to specific use classes, with particular requirements for external fixtures and detailed guidelines for external lighting to protect the National Park's dark skies.

Submitted drawings showcase the proposed modifications to the lower ground floor, including the removal of internal walls and the creation of new door openings to enhance accessibility.

The design of the glazed link extension aims to integrate a new entrance while maintaining visibility of the building's original structure.

The block plan situates the extension and changes within the site context.

Applicants have been reminded of their responsibilities regarding condition compliance, with a warning of potential enforcement if conditions are not met.