PERMISSION has been granted to convert a former bingo hall into a children's theatre.

Councillors agreed to grant private applicant's permission to convert the former Roxy Bingo Hall, in Watling Street, Leadgate, near Consett, into a theatre, rehearsal room and office space.

The state of repair of the building was described as poor in a report to Derwentside councillors, who discussed the proposal on Monday.

The hall, described as a substantial building in the heart of the village, would not always be used for rehearsals, but would be hired out to community groups.

In a report to the council, planning officer Rachel Broadbank said: "The proposal would not have any detrimental effects on the surrounding residential properties in terms of noise.

"Although there is likely to be an increase in the amount of street parking at certain times when the building is in use, it should be noted that the building could reopen as a bingo hall and as such potentially generate similar, large amounts of traffic and noise.