PLANNING permission has been given to refurbish a flat in Ellesmere.

The two-storey flat in 32a Scotland Street, was turned back into accommodation from a Butcher's shop, but according to a planning and access statement submitted with the application, important work needs to be carried out.

The shop has also been a Polish delicatessen.

The statement, for applicant Dale Griffiths from nearby Overton, sets out that work has not been carried out since the 1980s and would be needed for the tenants.

It said: "This will include re-slating the roof and introducing insulation, while at the same time replacing the existing dormer windows to enhance light and ventilation.

"Existing windows are a mixture of timber and uPVC.

"All will be replaced with high performance double glazed windows.

"The existing entrance timber door will also be replaced while floors to be overlaid with sheet boarding and the existing non compliant stairs to be replaced and reconfigured.

"Partitions to rooms will be modified to provide a more cohesive layout, forming a kitchen, lounge, two bedrooms and bathroom.

"A fire protected entrance lobby will give direct access to a new external galvanised steel staircase."

The planning statement concluded by for permission to be granted in order to 'upgrade the property which will hopefully assist in regeneration of a vibrant community.

"Once re-occupied will provide meaningful revenue for the local authority."

A report into the application from Shropshire Council planning officer Melanie Williams explained why permission was granted for the refurbishment of the flat to take place.

She said: " As this flat was already in residential use and the proposal is not to subdivide the proposed internal alterations and refurbishment would not require planning permission.

"In addition the original proposal included alterations to the dormer window on the front roof slop at the second floor; this has been amended and kept as original as per comments from Conservation so again this aspect would also not require formal consent."

She added: "The proposed refurbishment of the existing residential unit is supported in terms of its siting, scale and design.

"There are not deemed to be any major issues of highways or amenity and the application is recommended for approval."

The application was also supported by Ellesmere Town Council, but members did raise issues over parking.