A FORMER social club in County Durham could be transformed into homes under new proposals lodged with council planners.

Earlier this month, Durham County Council’s planning department validated an application for the Croxdale and Hett Working Mens Club and Institute in the Coxhoe ward.

The current building owners hope to convert the site into three new ‘terraced dwellings’ in traditional form through subdivision and extension works.

A heritage, design and access statement sets out how the works will be carried out, subject to planning permission.

This includes subdividing the major spaces and adding single storey rear extensions with rear parking areas and compact gardens.

Other works include removing advertisement boards, illuminated signage and the aluminium entranceway, restoring the original window/door openings and filling in the former beer cellar.

New windows, doors and floor structures, along with service installations, also aim to “bring the building up to [a] contemporary standard and guarantee its future.”

According to planning documents submitted, the site dates back to around 1896 and was originally intended as houses but designated as a club facility during construction.

The building was used as a social club for working miners and their families with several changes made to the site over the years.

After closing in 2020, the building owners now hope to give the site a new lease of life while providing affordable housing in the village.

The heritage, design and access statement adds: “The proposed development takes up a redundant building in want of care and attention in an attractive village location within close proximity to the whole range of commercial, cultural, educational and social amenities available to the community.

“The loss of a social outlet for the village is unfortunate but a result of a changing cultural environment.

“The resulting development will integrate seamlessly into the existing terrace and will contribute towards the provision of decent traditional and affordable housing in an established community.”

A final decision on the planning application is expected by early April, 2021.

For more information about the proposals, visit publicaccess.durham.gov.uk/online-applications and search planning reference: DM/20/03152/FPA