PLANNING permission has been granted for a housing development at the former Co-op store in Newent.

Developers Sudeley Homes, of Winchcombe, will now carry out part-demolition and part-conversion of the old Church Street store, to create two flats.

Forest of Dean District Council granted permission for this and five new houses at a meeting on Tuesday.

Newent Town Council raised no objection to the plan at its meeting in the Market Hall on Monday.

Coun Len Lawton said: "I'm impressed by what they are trying to do. Basically, it's a fine looking building."

The new houses will consist of two five -bedroomed properties, one four-bedroomed property and two three-bedroomed properties. Seven car-parking spaces and a turning area with vehicular access will be created.