PLANS for new five new holiday lets near Mickley have been approved by Tynedale councillors.

The proposal from DPD Property Developments concerns the conversion and redevelopment of an existing office building and attached golf bays to provide holiday accommodation at the Golf Driving Range on Eastgate Bank.

The proposal states: “The redevelopment of the site would make use of the existing brick-built office building on the west facing elevation of the driving range bay, with the driving bays demolished and replaced with new structures of a similar footprint and arrangement.”

The redevelopment would provide five units of holiday accommodation. Four of these are proposed as smaller open plan units, and would be centred on a larger unit.

Councillors approved the plans at a Tynedale Local Area Council meeting on Tuesday, December 11.

A statement from Coun. Anne Dale, councillor for Stocksfield and Broomhaugh, said the development was for holiday homes only and had caused concern over whether there would be a change of use to residential.

However, Coun. Nick Oliver highlighted the benefit the proposal would have on local tourism. He said: “From a tourism point of view it’s extra accommodation, which is needed.”

Councillors unanimously voted to support the application.