A SUPERMARKET chain’s plans to convert an old pub into a convenience store have won councillors’ backing.

Sainsbury’s will take over The Lodge – which used to be the popular Pot and Glass - next to the A167 in Newcastle Road, Crossgate Moor, Durham.

Durham County Council’s central and east area planning committee granted the firm permission for alterations to the building and the installation of plant and equipment.

Principal planning officer Alan Dobie told the committee that it could not object to the change of use because planning rules allowed old pubs to become stores without the need for permission. Councillors heard that the scheme – which Sainsbury’s said would create 20 jobs – was welcomed by many residents in the area who did not live close to the site, because it would provide a much-needed facility.

But people with homes close to the planned store were worried about noise, light pollution, loss of privacy and traffic problems. The City of Durham Trust also opposed the development, saying there was no evidence that it was needed.

Objector Clive Atherton, whose bungalow backs on to the site, said: “It is on one of the busiest routes through Durham City and as well as residents, it will be used by passing trade and I expect it to be extremely busy.”

He said the bungalows would lose their privacy and people in delivery lorries would be able to see into their bedrooms without better screening.

Agent for the scheme Richard Phillips said there would be discussions with planners over concerns about the design of a planned front extension and that the use of the car park for a school park and walk scheme could continue.

Local councillor Grenville Holland said it was important that the council enforce conditions of planning permission “to protect the welfare of immediate residents”.

He added: “Like the City of Durham Trust, I find the traffic assessment unconvincing. This is a tricky locality close to traffic lights, and manoeuvring in and out of such a store is not going to that easy, especially turning right across the A167.”

The committee approved the application including a condition suggested by Councillor Nigel Martin, who also represents the area, for fencing at the boundary with the bungalows.