PLANS for a new function room at a Hexham pub have been approved.

The Heart of Northumberland applied for planning permission and listed building consent for a change of use from residential accommodation, situated on the first floor, to a new function room.

The pub, on Market Street, will remove the existing bedroom, living room and private bathroom facilities on the first floor.

A design and access statement submitted alongside the application by Hedley Planning Services said the proposed works "aim to ensure the continued use of a building of historical significance within a prominent location".

"The creation of a new function room will enable the long-term economic sustainability of the public house, while enhancing the social offer within a main town," it added.

One objection had been received from a neighbouring property, which raised concerns regarding the impact of the proposed development on the residential amenity of neighbouring properties, including issues such as noise and overlooking.

The Heart of Northumberland dates from the 17th or the early 18th century. The Grade II listed building was originally a house, before the building was altered and a new pub front was added in the late 19th century when the building became The Turks Head pub.