PLANS to demolish a convenience store and the flats above it and to rebuild the premises have been given approval.

Proposals were submitted last autumn to the council relating to Lee's Off Licence on Westleigh Lane, Leigh.

Planning permission had previously been granted to make internal alterations and create a single-storey rear extension at the shop.

However, plans, submitted by applicant Lee Das, say the building's "poor state of repair" mean a demolition is necessary.

A design and access statement said: "We are very keen to implement these changes but on further inspection of the existing building it has become apparent that the building has had many changes in the past and is in a poor state of repair.

"For that reason we are now proposing to demolish the existing building and replace it with essentially what has been recently approved but with some minor alterations to improve the living space in two of the three flats and build up to the perimeter wall on the side boundary.

"The proposals are part of the modernisation and improvements to the shop and we feel the new build will enhance the appearance on Westleigh Lane and give a new lease of life to the site".

They added "the shop will be extended to the rear of the property to gain some much needed shop space along with new staff facilities and very much needed storage area.

"At the first floor the three flats will be revised internally to improve living standards and increase fire safety.

"Two of the flats will be extended slightly".

The scale of the proposal "is very much as previously approved with only minor changes" it added.

The plans have been granted formal permission by the council.

A planning officer's report stated: "The proposed building would be set an acceptable distance from neighbouring dwellings, so that I would not negatively impact neighbouring dwellings through overlooking, overshadowing, loss of outlook or overbearing impact.

"On balance, the proposed extension of the use is expected to have an acceptable impact on the occupiers of the neighbouring dwellings from the arrival and departure of customers and any noise generated from within the premises".