A PLANNING application to convert a former council-run care home will be decided next week.

Apeks Property Services have applied for permission to redevelop the vacant Stanfield House care home in Stanley, which closed five years ago.

Developers propose to convert the Joicey Square building into 14 flats, along with three training rooms, 15 offices and a café, along with 29 car parking spaces.

In 2013, planning permission was granted for 14 flats on the site, but negotiations have been taking place between the developers and residents over the detail of the scheme.

Members of Durham County Council’s Area North planning committee will decide on the application when they meet on Thursday.