A former pub is to be turned into flats.

Kirklees councillors agreed the Post Office Hotel on Market Street in Milnsbridge could be converted into residential use.

It will also have two units beneath suitable for a cafe.

Despite hearing previous reservations from councillors about the lack car parking, Kirklees planning officers said the proposal is acceptable and would bring back into use an existing redundant building in a sustainable location.

Qamar Akhtar, owner of the building, was not at the meeting but her father, Parvaz, said: “This property has been empty for many years – she has spent time and money on this property. We request the application be approved to improve the area.”

Planning committee member Clr Mohan Sokhal said: “It has been empty seven or eight years – it’s an eyesore.

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“Our council policy is to bring back empty properties into use for either retail or accommodation. This applicant has provided both and I think it will improve the area.”

Councillors were told the plan did not include car parking but the streets around the venue could accommodate it.

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Committee member Clr Andrew Marchington added: “We do need to look at parking in that area of Milnsbridge in the future, particularly with some of the operations which have a significant amount of parking.”

The application was approved unanimously.