PLANS to turn a village post office into a takeaway have been granted permission following an appeal.

Proposals to convert the former Gwersyllt Post Office on Hope Street were rejected by Wrexham Council’s planning committee in July.

The decision was taken following concerns over noise and parking issues, along with claims were were already too many hot food outlets in the area.

However, the owners launched an appeal in which they said the change of use was needed as the post office was no longer a viable business.

It has now been approved by a planning inspector appointed by the Welsh Government, who said it would not be harmful to residents’ living conditions.

In a decision notice Iwan Lloyd said: “The appeal site is situated near a busy road junction, a railway line, station and car park and a supermarket and its car park.

“Given the proposed early closing hours of 10pm the proposed development is unlikely to cause additional noise or disturbance.

“In all, I consider the proposal would not harm the living conditions of nearby residents in relation to noise and disturbance.”

Officers at the original planning committee meeting recommended the proposals for refusal because they felt it was likely to attract greater use in the evening than the current shop and disturb neighbours.

They also said an increase in on site parking would impact on highway safety.

A total of 10 objections were received from neighbours concerned about litter, vermin, odour, anti-social behaviour and noise.

However Mr Lloyd said: “There would be no significant difference in between the existing and proposed uses when comparing the impact of cars parking on the turning area on the dead-end section of Hope Street.

“If there are problems then the council would have taken action on this short stretch of road and imposed parking restrictions.

“All other elements of the development including concerns about litter/vermin and anti-social behaviour are matters controlled by other legislation.”

The opening hours of the takeaway will be restricted from 4pm to 10pm from Tuesday to Saturday and Sunday.

It will not be allowed to open to customers at any time on Mondays.