PLANS for the partial demolition of an existing building and the replacement with a ground floor retail space and four flats above it has been approved by Torridge District Council.

The proposals affect the address known as Huntsman, The Square, Holsworthy.

In a design and access statement accompanying the planning application, the developers told the council: “Parts of the building have been found to be in poor condition. The Huntsman is particularly affected by failures of the roof and many of the adjoining link building is in a poor condition.”

The plans would comprise of the partial demolition of a two-storey building facing onto Holsworthy Square and a new three-storey building with retail use on the ground floor with apartments above.

In addition, there will be the conversion of the existing building to the rear of the site with retail on the ground floor and residential apartment above, the raising of the roof to the existing building to accommodate an additional storey and the conversion of an existing garage/lock up at the rear.

Torridge District Council approved the proposals subject to several conditions related to construction methods, asbestos surveys and restriction on the times where development can take place to protect the interests of other residents in the area.