Plans to convert a vacant flat at a borough community building to allow it to be used for “educational, training and cultural activities” have been approved despite objections.

Proposals had been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council for the first-floor living accommodation at the Salvation Army Temple, in Park Road.

The application will see the disused flat be transformed to allow the space to be used for “small scale educational, cultural and/or community based functions”.

A dozen objections had been submitted to the local authority from residents over the plans.

The Salvation Army headquarters, in Park Road, Hartlepool.

placeholder image — The Salvation Army headquarters, in Park Road, Hartlepool.

Worries voiced included the scheme potentially leading to an increase in parking and traffic issues and an “uncertainty” among residents surrounding the intended use of the premises.

The application therefore went before the latest meeting of the council’s planning committee and was unanimously approved by councillors.

This was in line with recommendations from officers who ruled the proposals would be “consistent with the established use of the remainder of the host building” and were “considered to be acceptable”.

A planning statement from the Salvation Army noted the scheme “directly enhances the cultural and education opportunities available to local residents and visitors”.

It said: “The size of the rooms will accommodate small group meetings and private study and are considered naturally suited to these forms of activity.

“The change will greatly benefit the local community and ensure the long established facilities provided by the Salvation Army continue to support all sections of the local population and visitors alike.”

The first floor premises will only be able to operate for the approved new use from 9am-6pm from Mondays-Fridays and until 2pm on Saturdays and 1pm on Sundays.