Change of use plans to turn an empty commercial building in Southwold into a two-bedroom home has been given the go-ahead.

An application from agents Durrants Building Consultancy on behalf of the applicant Rosalind Field was submitted to East Suffolk Council in February.

Centring around "change of use of building from commercial use to residential dwelling, including external and internal modifications and change of use of curtilage to residential curtilage" at 9 Pinkneys Lane in Southwold, it was 'permitted' under delegated powers this week.

A planning statement said the site has been owned by the applicant for many years.

It adds: "Until recently, it was let to a commercial tenant, who ran a delicatessen from the ground floor.

"The first floor was used for storage in connection with the deli.

"The entire building is now empty."

A previous bid to turn the deli into a restaurant and bar was refused in 2020.

It adds: "The applicant is seeking a change of use of the building to a single residential dwelling, which will be more compatible with the immediate area.

"The proposals represent an opportunity to secure a permanent use on the site."

A delegated report from the council's case officer said 9 Pinkneys Lane is a "two storey, detached building located in the centre of Southwold" that is "surrounded by residential development on a quiet, narrow lane which is set away from commercial activity".

It adds: "There is no prevailing retail appearance within the street frontage and at present the commercial appearance of the building is somewhat at odds with the traditionally designed dwellings."

One objection cited concerns that the proposal "does not seek to improve the appearance of the building".

But recommending approval, subject to conditions, it concluded: "Overall, it is considered that the proposed development is of an acceptable design that would not have an adverse impact on the Southwold Conservation Area."