An application to run a hairdressing and barber business from a Brown Edge garage has been approved by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

Sarah Allen applied to the council back in July to seek permission for a change of use, with the hopes of being able to give haircuts from the garage of her residential home.

The application form stated that "the barber services to be provided will restore a lost business to the village and a very much returned needed service for residents".

It added that the service could be popular with elderly residents and those with limited mobility, who needed access to an affordable, local hairdresser.

In the era of Covid-19, there would also be "a very strict procedure for a restricted number of occupants" due to the limited size of the garage.

It also adds that the driveway of the property has space for up to five vehicles, and there would be no increase in traffic or delivery activity as a result of the business.

Four letters supporting the development were received from members of the public, with one relevant letter received which objected to the application. The district council says the remainder of the letters of objection were not relevant to planning considerations.

Brown Edge Parish Council offered no objections, and the application was given full permission this week by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

A report by the district council's planning officers said the application would be in line with the policies of the Local Plan, which seek to "encourage flexible working practices".

The report also stated that the application was satisfactory in terms of design, amenity and highway safety.

It concludes: "For the reasons outlined above, the proposed development is considered to accord with the relevant policies contained in the Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan (2020)