APPROVAL was granted for a change of use of a vacant shop on the edge of the city centre to a children's ceramic workshop and cafe.
The premises, at 43 St James Street in Newtown, were previously occupied by Organic Fair and have been vacant since March last year according to planning officers at Cheshire West and Chester Council.
Seeking approval for their plans, applicants The Spotty Pig said they proposed to open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday and from 11am to 5pm on Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays.
Referring to their policies for the loss of shops, planners said the premises had been on the market since Spring 2009.
They were satisfied that reasonable attempts had been made to let the shop which has a separate flat above and is adjacent to the St Anne Street car park.
The needs of the local community could be met by the Brook Street shopping area they accepted and pointed out there would be some sales of ceramic products.
On that basis, they felt the loss of the shop was acceptable.
No objections were raised by environmental protection officers subject to the suggested hours to protect the amenity of occupiers of the flat above.
