A former post office near Chester-le-Street is set for a new lease of life as a restaurant under new plans.
Earlier this year, a 'change of use' bid was lodged with Durham County Council for a space on Front Street, Great Lumley.
The site, opposite the Great Lumley Methodist Church, was formerly a shop/post office and has been vacant for several years.
Following a decision from council planners, the site will be transformed into an eatery with seating space for up to 50 people.
A previous bid for a restaurant at the site was withdrawn in July 2019.
According to a planning statement from the applicant, James Southern Real Estate, the new plans will benefit the village.
The statement reads: "The proposed restaurant use will bring in a high-quality restaurateur to occupy a vacant space and to employ multiple staff.
"The restaurant in this location will provide an amenity missing in the vicinity and will benefit the local and wider area."
During consultation, Durham County Council's environmental health team raised concerns about potential disruption to neighbours in terms of noise and odour.
To tackle this, conditions have been attached to the planning application including an extraction scheme and soundproofing measures at the site.
A large metal flue linked to the restaurant will be hidden from view through the placement of planters and hedging on the ground floor roof section.
Durham County Council's planning authority approved the plans on Thursday, September 26.
Council planning officers concluded potential "adverse impacts" from the development could be kept in check through planning rules.
They added the scheme would benefit "the vitality and viability of the area" and serve the local community.
Under planning conditions, works to convert the ex-post office must take place in the next three years.
Agreed opening hours will be limited to 12noon-11pm, seven days a week.
When completed, the site will boast a new shop front and customer car park at the rear.
