A NORTH-East hotel could be changed into flats as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, a planning application to Durham County Council has revealed.

The hotel was constructed adjacent to the Moorings Public House and Restaurant on Hett Hills in Chester-le-Street, and could be turned into two self-contained flats.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, hospitality has seen a massive decline in demand, which have affected, in particular, hotels located away from large urban areas.

The hotel adjacent to the Moorings Public House and Restaurant has seen a large fall in demand and, according to the Design and Access Statement, this has rendered its current use "unsustainable."

The statement continues to argue that the development could support the local economy and provide an increased demand for local services and could attract younger working professionals and small families.

The small collection of dwellings could, supposedly, provide a social hub, centred on the Public House and Restaurant.

Also in planning applications to Durham County Council this week, a now vacant shop, storage area and accommodation could be turned into a mixed use salon, and a change of use of the first floor to residential rooms, to be part of the existing flat.

The development could see the replacement of the shop front with new painted timber, traditionally designed windows and door complete with pilasters and installation of new illuminated signage.

The shop, which is located on Durham Road in Consett, is currently vacant and was last used as a Premier convenience store, but with this development could see it become a treatment room for podiatry, minor medical treatments and beauty treatments.

Another planning application could see the conversion of farm yard buildings into four dwellings.

The development of the farm buildings located on Twizell Lane in Stanley, could see associated parking, ancillary works and possible demolition works.

The farmstead was developed prior to World War Two but farming is ceasing in the area and so they could be converted into houses.

The Design and Access Statement argues that although the area is of historical interest, conversion of traditional buildings "has long been accepted" and it would be sustainable to find new uses for existing buildings.

The proposed design will re-use the existing buildings with minmal alterations.