A FORMER pub will be converted into new apartments in a move to avoid 'another boarded up building'.

The Hark to Towler, in Market Street, will be converted into four flats after Bury Council's planning committee gave it the green light.

Applicant Robert Crosbie can move forward with plans to replace the existing beer garden at the rear of the building with a single-storey lobby area.

There will be four two-bedroom apartments created across two floors. A car park with space for four vehicles will also be built.

Architects Fish Associates previously said the plans involve "the existing fabric of the building", although there will be "a small amount of demolition and new entrance to the rear of the pub."

The site was once synonymous with live heavy metal gigs but closed in September last year. It has lain empty since.

Councillor Susan Nuttall moved for approval, which was seconded by Councillor Jackie Harris.

The plans were voted through unanimously, with 10 in favour and none against.

Tottington ward councillor Yvonne Wright said: "The pub has had a checkered past.

"It was a venue for live music for some years.

"However, I think, as I'm sure we all agree, boarded up pubs don't do anyone any favours.

"This one is in a great spot and I think it is a really good move to bring this building back into use so that it does not lie derelict.

"It is only yards away from the soon-to-be-opened Tottington Centre and Community Library so I hope the new residents use that too."

The only objection to the development was submitted by Tottington Private Nursery School.

The nursery raised concerns over parking in Kirklees Street, congestion on an already busy road, and insufficient parking spaces.

A Council statement within the planning documents read: "The local planning authority worked positively and proactively with the applicant to ensure that the proposal comprised sustainable development and would improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area and would accord with the development plan."