A GRADE 1 listed hall dating back to 1680 is to be converted into a business and conference venue.

The controversial plans for Acklam Hall, approved by Middlesbrough Council, will also include the creation of a restaurant, offices, a function space for weddings, deli and flower shop.

A medical village and 56 new houses will also be built in the grounds.

Neil Whittingham, of developers Acklam Hall Ltd, has insisted the housing development will reflect the historical context of Acklam Hall.

He said: “The function of this hall is to ensure that what we put in, such as the restaurant and business centre, complements the rest of the ground surroundings so that visitors aren’t faced with a new dark, modern place. ”

The committee approved the plans subject to conditions including the retails units only operating as a deli and flower shop.

Due to concerns over light pollution and floodlight glare affecting nearby residents, details of any floodlights must be submitted and approved by the local planning authority.

The application was seen by the committee to be an “acceptable form of development” and that the changes of use would not prejudice the character of Acklam Hall.