Plans to convert a Barnard Castle pub into apartments have been approved. 

The Black Horse pub and holiday let, on Newgate, is set to be redeveloped into six new apartments after planning permission was granted by Durham County Council. 

The building currently comprises two two-bedroom self-catering apartments on the upper floors. 

A new planning proposal shows how the owner, Kevin Everitt, wants to refurbish and convert the existing pub area into a residential unit and convert one of the units into shared residents' storage space.

Overall, there will be five two-bedroom flats and one one-bedroom flat. 

The overall footprint and elevations of the building will be unaltered.

The majority of works will be carried out at the ground floor where the pub will be converted into a two-bedroom flat. No changes are proposed to the front elevation of the building which will keep the original appearance.

The accommodation has been described as “much-needed” by the applicant. 

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The building was previously subject to an Unsafe Structure Notice, served on the property prior to the current owner being in charge. 

A planning statement added: “We suggest that the overall proposal is viewed as having a minor impact internally, with an overall positive impact on the heritage asset, ensuring the permanent residential use and with which will ensure the property is maintained via the optimum viable use for the overall heritage asset. 

“The change of use to residential accommodation, therefore bringing this space into use and providing high-quality residential accommodation within the town centre and having a further positive effect on the local community and heritage assets.”