A planning application to merge an old Biddulph Moor shop and takeaway into a residential home has been approved.

Biddulph Nub News reported previously how the application was submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council in November. The application relates to the building at 453 New Street, Biddulph Moor.

The application was made by the owners of the property - a Mr and Mrs Guy - and sought a change of use for their old newsagent and takeaway businesses, which were both located in the building.

A planning statement prepared on behalf of the applicants explains that the pair ceased trading in their newsagent business due to failing health and reduced trade, and retired in September 2019.

Similarly, due to economic recession and lack of use, they also ceased trading at their takeaway business in 2012.

The applicants have now been granted permission to formally merge the two shop floor spaces into one residential area, becoming part of the existing dwelling space already in the building, and turning the whole property officially into one single residential dwelling.

The appearance of the shop front of the building will be adjusted to blend in as residential, including removing the shop signage, removing the shop door and reducing the size of a large window.

The statement adds: "Despite trying, the Applicants have made every reasonable effort to sell the former convenience store business and takeaway business, during their years of ownership, however, the difficult market conditions did not leave viable businesses to sell.

"The Applicants formally retired on 30 September 2019 and are in their late 70s. The Property has been their residential home for over 32 years; the Property will continue to remain their residential home for the upcoming years.

"Along with the Applicants' position as explained above, the current economic climate and the Covid situation, there is absolutely no prospect of the Applicants ever operating any business from the First or Second Floor Space within their Property, either now or in the future."

Approving the application, a report by the district council's planning officers states: "The development would result in the loss of a community facility from the centre of a 'larger village' where there are, however, other existing facilities of similar quality within the village. Minor building alterations would have no adverse impacts on the character and appearance of the locality."

To view the application and decision in full, click here.