A LANDMARK former bank building is set to be turned into a restaurant after permission for the change was granted by council planning officers.

The Grade-II listed former Lloyd’s Bank building, on Skinnergate, in Darlington town centre, has stood empty since the bank moved to new premises on Northgate last year.

Planning officials at Darlington Borough Council have granted permission under delegated powers for a change of use to turn the ground floor and basement of the building into a restaurant.

Documents submitted to the council do not specify the type of restaurant planned for the site.

Permission to create five apartments in the upper floors of the building has also been granted as part of the application, submitted by Gregory Projects Ltd.

As the building lies within the town centre conservation area, planning officials had to determine that the changes to the building would not harm the character of the local area.

A planning report written by planning officers noted: “The property is a prominent building that lies on a corner plot within the conservation area.

“Externally the proposed alterations involve floor to ceiling glazing within the shop front, a new centralised entrance and a glazed wall and entrance within the existing arch.

“The upper floor facade facing Coniscliffe Road and Blackwellgate would be retained.

“It is considered that the overall conversion of this building and the associated external alterations would enhance the significance of the conservation area.”

On the subject of the apartments, the planners acknowledge the lack of off-street parking and the heavily restricted parking in the streets around Blackwellgate, but conclude that the central town centre location should mean that residents would expect parking to be scarce.

A number of conditions have been imposed on the developer to use materials in keeping with the conservation area and to fit secondary glazing in the residential units to protect the apartments from noise outside.

A statement submitted to the council by the developer states: “The subject proposals will return the building in its entirety to beneficial use, which will enhance the character and appearance of the town centre conservation area.

“It is considered that the proposed development will have a neutral impact upon the listed building, its environs and character of area.

“Bringing back the building into full use will undoubtedly have a positive impact upon the surrounding area.”