Plans approved to transform empty former Hartlepool fruit and veg store

Proposals were submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council to convert the first and second floors of 145 Elwick Road from a storage area into a three-bedroomed flat.

Applicant Keith Hall is also seeking to provide a new shop front for the premises, which were last occupied by Watson’s fruit and veg store.

Council planning officers have approved the proposals, ruling the development would not have a “negative impact” on the area.

Mr Hall said the work will “result in significant social and economic benefits”.

He added in a planning statement: “The development would deliver one home for rent and a new shop which will have a positive impact on the wider area, the shop at present is run down and has a very poor frontage.”

The statement said the work will make the shop, last occupied in 2020, a “more attractive prospect to a potential occupier”.