Art Deco store to become apartments

A 1920s Art Deco former retail building is set for a new lease of life after plans for apartments and retail units were approved.

Burton building in Jarrow, South Tyneside, was once the home one of Britain's largest chains of clothes shops.

But it has been empty for several years, "becoming an eyesore on the local area", according to developers Consultation First Limited.

South Tyneside Council approved the plans for five one-bedroom apartments, despite concerns over parking.

Separate proposals for three shopping units on the ground floor were already given the green light in October, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Developers reported many old Burton buildings in north-east England had been "crudely carved up and spoilt", but Jarrow's building retained its "original black marble fascia" and "original 'Montague Burton' entrance mosaic".

However, the design and access statement added the building had been "vacant for several years and has badly fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming an eyesore on the local area".

The property had also been "stripped out following a major roof leak" which caused considerable damage.

The apartment plans caused concerns due to lack of allocated parking for the new flats.

A council decision report said there had been an objection over a potential overspill of vehicles into the surrounding area.

Planners decided the proposed change of use to apartments was acceptable and the transport development officer had assessed the development and reported no issues of concern.

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