PLANS have been granted to turn a former pub in Saddleworth into a house.

A change-of-use application was sent to the council to convert the former Royal Oak Inn pub in Delph, which closed down a couple of years ago, into a house.

The applicants, Michael and Sheila Fancy, have owned the pub site since 1993.

A planning document with the application said: "The public house, part of the property, is at ground floor only and comprised three small rooms and the public toilets, whereas the living accommodation for Mrs and Mrs Fancy and their family includes three double bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, study and store at ground and first floor.

"The bar area has always been used as the family’s dining area.

"In essence, the Royal Oak Inn is not only a business but has been the family home for almost 30 years.

"After running the public house for almost three decades it has become increasingly difficult to continue running the business due to its remote location.

"Most customers travelled by car and as such their stay was only short due to drink driving laws.

"It attracted occasional walkers and people who live in and around Heights.

"For the last few years the public house attracted only a small number of customers on weekdays and Saturday evenings, and it was only worth opening on a Sunday afternoon when there was a steady flow of people out walking and stopping for a drink.

"Even before Covid-19, the business was struggling to make a reasonable income and a difficult decision was made in March 2020 for the public house to cease trading.

"Mr and Mrs Fancy have continued to live in the property, but have now taken the decision not to re-open and to convert the former bar area into additional living accommodation as part of their house.

"Planning permission is sought to convert the three lounges and bar area into a living room and dining room. The toilets will become a utility room.

"No external changes are proposed.

"The car park will remain as existing and will be used as a domestic garden."

After weighting up the proposals the council approved the plans with a condition attached to protect the greenbelt and heritage assets of the site.

A planning report added: "In conclusion, the proposed development is acceptable.

"The proposal would not be an undue and dominant addition to the site.

"The proposals proximity and siting mean neighbours amenity would not be impacted to unacceptable levels and highway and pedestrian safety will be maintained."