Former Hartlepool dance studio to become place of prayer and worship for Bangladeshi community after plans approved

Proposals were submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council earlier this year by the Bangladeshi Cultural Association to convert the former dance studio at 77b Murray Street.

Plans stated the move would benefit the area and allow the association to move into a larger premises, with their previous site at 15 Murray Street now too small.

A report from council senior planning officer Laura Chambers confirmed the proposals have been given the go-ahead.

She said: “This development is considered acceptable in relation to the nature of the use in this location as well as the design of the alterations proposed and impact of the scheme as a whole on the amenity neighbouring land users.”

The plans involve converting two areas at ground and first floor level from meeting rooms to spaces to be used for regular prayers on a daily basis.

The ground floor will also feature a kitchen, toilets, including disabled facilities, and occasionally functions may be held at the site.

A design and access statement from ASP associates, on behalf of the applicant, previously stated the proposals would benefit the area.

It said: “The building has had a multitude of uses over the years but the more recent use has been a dance school over the two floors.

“Unfortunately, this proved to be unsuccessful and the Bangladeshi Cultural Association has purchased the property.

“This property has remained vacant due to the former dance school closing and rather than falling into a state of disrepair the Bangladeshi Cultural Association has taken this over and hope to use it for regular prayer meetings for the area in general.

“This will serve the local association within the area of Hartlepool adequately.”

Plans also include creating an archway at the site entrance from Murray Street, which would display the name of the organisation, along with other minor external changes.

The applicant stated they intend to employ local labour for the project from within Hartlepool.

Residents living nearby were consulted on the plans, with four responses received, including one objection and three who offered no objection to the plans.

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