A full planning application must be submitted in order to convert part of an old Leek mill into rehearsal rooms for local musicians, the district council has ruled.

A change of use prior approval notification was submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council by a Mr David Scragg from the Law Rooms Music Centre, regarding part of Newspaper House on Brook Street in Leek.

The aim is to convert the first floor of the building, which was originally constructed as a mill, into rehearsal spaces for local musicians.

However, the district council has since said that a full planning application must first be submitted to have any chance of doing so.

A report by the district council's planning officers said: "The application site relates to a building located on Brook Street, opposite a large retail complex and associated town centre parking.

"The building is a former textile mill of substantial brick with a traditional appearance. It sits outside the Leek Conservation Area.

"The building currently used for a mix of commercial use including: retail, business and a dance studio."

It concluded: "The nature of the proposal relates to Class D2 as it is to create a space for local musicians to rehearse.

"The proposed development does not accord with condition T.2 1.a) the site is to be used as a state-funded school. The proposed change of use is not state-funded and is not to be used as a school or nursery.

"Therefore, prior approval is to be refused and full planning permission would be required."