A Merseyside nightclub has had plans for an extension approved by the council.
Plans were submitted to St Helens Council on behalf of Bar 44 on Westfield Street, detailing a bar and kitchen extension next to the current premises. The site of the expansion, 48 Westfield Street, was formerly a health food shop.
The demolition of the "dilapidated" premises at 50 Westfield Street was also included in the application, to allow for a single story toilet block and terrace.
READ MORE: Man with 'jelly wizard' cannabis crashes into two cars after police chase
Part of the design and access statement said: "The ground floor layout comprises a revised entrance configuration on the side of Bar 44.
“The bar will then be opened up to accommodate ground floor toilets and a smoking area to the rear and further licensed floor space and seating to the front."
The application said it is estimated the bar will have a total licensed capacity in the region of 520 “however this is subject to ongoing negotiations with police, fire and licensing departments”.
The semi-enclosed smoking area is proposed to be on the ground floor to the rear yard area of the site.
The plans were recommended for approval by case officer Daley Parsonage, who noted that due to the proximity of the upcoming residential development at the Beechams Building, a noise assessment had been conducted and it was found “the overall noise impact will be negligible”.
The report summarised: “The proposed development is considered to be an acceptable form of development within the town centre that helps with the vitality of the area."
Formal permission for the plans was granted. You can view the full application here.
READ NEXT
Remorseless 'predator' saw teenager heading home from night out as 'easy target'
DWP claimants could be due £1,500 back payments following appeal hearing next week
Find the coins hidden on the ECHO website for the chance to win a £200 voucher
Man with pair of tights on his head tried to rob pie shop while brandishing knife
