Plans to convert Leek's old Ponden Mill shop into a Card Factory outlet can go ahead after permission was granted to change the shop front's signage.

It appears that the former homeware store on Derby Street will soon be turned into a greeting card retailer after a planning application was approved by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

We reported in August how the plans, which were submitted to the council by a Mr Jack Wright, sought permission for the installation of new shop front signage on the town centre store, which is currently permanently closed.

A statement prepared as part of the application gave more information about the plans.

It said: "The property is located on Derby Street, a high street with several other retail units currently trading. The unit itself does not have listed status, however, the neighbouring Roebuck Hotel is classified as Grade II listed.

"The existing timber shop front is to be replaced ... with new glazing and relocated entrance doors. The new shop front will not affect existing rendered columns or brickwork. New stone stall risers are to be installed to match that of the existing.

"The existing occupier's signage is to be removed, and the render redecorated in Card Factory branded blue."

The plans have since been approved by the council, with a report by the council's planning officers concluding that the work would not harm the appearance or character of the building.

The report also added that the conversion would be preferable to letting the building stand empty.

It concluded: "The proposal as amended would not harm the character and appearance of the Conservation Area or the setting of adjacent listed buildings. The proposal would therefore comply with the Local Plan and also the government planning guidance contained in the National Planning Policy Framework."