Plans to use Ibstock's former Miners' Welfare building as the new village hall have been given the green light by North West Leicestershire District Council.

Ibstock Parish Council applied for a change of use and refurbishment in May.

A design statement accompanying the application says the existing building is currently not in use, but has been maintained by the Parish Council for a number of years. 

The site borders Ibstock Bowling Club to the north, a 3G pitch to the east and the Welfare Ground, a play park and skate park to the south.

It adds that the aim is to enhance the overall site and provide a high quality , flexible design for community use.

The document says: "The design is the result of several consultations with the Parish Council and local community, following their brief to create a multi-use community building.

"Within this rigorous three-year design development phase both refurbishment and new build options were explored to consider how the layout and scale of the building could be improved to cater for different community groups and uses.

"All designs revolved around a Main Hall capable of accommodating groups of up to 146 people at one time, complemented by private meeting spaces and offices . 

"These additions not only diversify the building's facilities but also enhance the potential revenue streams for the parish council, enabling the building to cover its operational costs.

"In early 2022 , a community consultation was hosted at the Palace community centre, Ibstock, offering every resident of the Parish an opportunity to voice their opinions on the design options prepared by HSSP Architects.  

"The feedback gathered during the consultation guided the subsequent phase of development, shaping the proposal detailed within this document .

"The proposal looks to establish a new primary pedestrian accessway along the southern façade creating a welcoming frontage up the existing two-way access road.

"Five additional parking spaces have been created that include two Disabled parking bays and three standard bays two of which will incorporate EV charging points.

"The proposed land owned currently has parking capacity for 70 cars, which is set to be maintained under this proposal.

"Given its previous function as a social club and sports hub, we anticipate no significant increase in traffic volume."

The design statement says 'great care' has been taken to consider the impact on neighbouring properties, ensuring that the development enhances rather than disrupts the surrounding environment. 

It adds: "The project provides an opportunity to re-establish a long-lasting civic building with modern facilities for future generations to use.

"The opportunity to accommodate demand from more local groups, which cannot currently be met and which would further enable the building to cover its operational costs."