PLANS to convert a former bank into flats and shops have been approved.

A planning application was lodged earlier this year for the former NatWest building in Hexham to be converted into six new flats and two retail units.

The town's NatWest branch closed in 2017.

The applicant, listed as Mr Chambers, wants to divide the ground floor of the Grade II Listed building, on the junction of Battle Hill and St Mary's Chare, into two retail units and a ground floor flat, while the first and second floors would be converted from office space into five flats.

Planning documents submitted alongside the application suggested there would be a mix of one and two-bed flats.

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Proposed improvements to the shop frontage included new plinths, stall risers, timber pilasters, timber framed glazing and rendered columns. The remaining marble and granite on the ground floor would be rendered in a sandstone colour.

A design and access statement submitted alongside the application by Doonan Architects said the proposal "will bring back into use a building which is a heritage asset to Hexham town centre".

"The listed building has a viable use for all storeys of the building," it added. "This will ensure that the building is maintained and does not fall into disrepair in the town centre location."

The planning application received no objections and last week, a decision notice issued on the county council's planning portal showed the proposals have been approved.

Listed building consent was also granted.

The planning officer's report said: "The majority of the ground floor level would be retained for main town centre/retail uses and would create a new active street frontage along Battle Hill and St Mary’s Chare, whilst providing residential flats to the rear and above on the upper floors, without undermining the overall role of Hexham’s town centre and primary shopping area.

"Whilst the proposal would result in the loss of office space to the upper floors of the building, it is recognised that the building has been vacant for several years and so would make good use of the space in accordance with development plan policies."