A 12-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) will replace office and storage space in a town centre.

The council has granted planning permission for a conversion of the rear ground floor, first floor and second floor of 135 High Street in Newport.

Retails units at ground level are currently unoccupied whilst the property’s upstairs office spaces are only partially used, according to a Design, Access and Heritage Statement.

County Hall’s decision report said: “The units would be affordable and would help to sustain the surrounding town centre and primary retail frontage in which the ground floor of this site occupies.

“The proposed redevelopment of the building would have a minimal impact on the character and appearance of the area.

“There is considered to be suitable amenity space for the future occupiers.”

Planners attached six conditions to the approval to comply with national legislation and Island planning policy, protect the character of the area, provide a ‘high level of amenity’ for future residents and neighbours and to ensure adequate waste storage.