Plans to open a medical centre in a former Durham city office building have been approved.

On Thursday, November 7, Durham County Council granted planning permission for the third-floor office space at 7 Old Elvet, Durham, to be transformed into a medical practice.

The application was submitted by Durham Private Doctors Ltd, represented by Dr Helen Marsden.

Last used by estate agents JW Wood, the office spans 67.47 square metres.

According to the application, the suite will now be used for medical or health services.

The change of use falls under Use Class E(e), which allows for medical or health services. According to the application, the site is not near significant trees or hedges and is not at risk of flooding.

Clinical waste will be managed by specialist contractors, with secure storage bins to be placed in the car park.

The building's planning history includes several similar applications, such as the conversion of a first-floor office to a dental practice in 2017. Notably, Suite 1 was also changed to medical services in November 2024.

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The application was reviewed under policies from the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the County Durham Plan, focusing on sustainable development, transport, design, and environmental protection.

No public objections, support, or representations were received during the consultation period.

Development must start within three years and comply with approved plans.

Flood risk safety measures for extreme events are to be submitted before occupancy, and the development should limit noise and disruption, with specific working hours recommended.

The practice has been exempted from the Biodiversity Net Gain condition due to its classification as a non-major, low-impact development.