Plans to convert a former County Durham café into a beauty salon have been approved by the council.
A currently vacant property on Woods Terrace East in Murton will be transformed into a commercial space after lying empty for five years.
Vicky Hedley, who currently operates a salon nearby, is behind the application to transform the building which was previously a café, while the first floor served as a residential flat.
The new development will see the entire building repurposed into a salon, featuring internal alterations such as rewiring, plumbing updates, and the addition of partition walls for treatment rooms and storage.
Externally, the building will be re-rendered, and a new roller shutter, window updates, and signage will be added.
The relocation project will provide jobs for two current staff members and create opportunities for up to three additional self-employed individuals.
The salon will operate from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday, and will be closed on Sundays and bank holidays.
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Located in Murton, the project has been evaluated against the County Durham Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework.
The County Durham Plan supports development on unallocated sites, provided it fits with the surrounding area, encourages sustainable design, and addresses noise and residential impact.
National Planning Policy Framework supports economic growth and the importance of good design.
Highways officials have reported that although there is no parking on-site, nearby public parking is deemed sufficient.
Environmental health officers initially raised concerns about potential noise but accepted the proposed soundproofing measures.
The public response has been positive, with no objections received.
Four neighbours were consulted, and a site notice was posted.
The proposed modifications are considered minor and in keeping with local aesthetics, with the cream render aligning with nearby commercial buildings.
Due to the site's central location and existing transport links, the project is expected to have minimal impact on highway safety.
The proposal was approved on November 15, with the council stating that it met policy requirements.
Soundproofing measures must be implemented before opening.
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