Former St Leonards GP surgery to become beauty salon

The change of use for 49 Essenden Road, St Leonards, was granted by Hastings Borough Council on Friday (July 17).

The building was home to the Essenden Road Surgery for many years, until 2017.

It has been vacant since then and the building has started falling into disrepair.

Hastings Borough Council said the proposed change of use will allow for the building to be brought back into repair and occupied.

In planning documents, it added: "The proposed change of use will not involve any external alterations but the building and site will be repaired and maintained to a high standard which will enhance the character and appearance of this area.

"The proposed change of use will not harmfully impact upon neighbouring residential amenities or parking. The site is situated in a fairly sustainable and central location, close by to transport links, on-street parking and a large carpark to the rear of the site.

"The proposed change of use is therefore considered to be acceptable and is in line with the relevant Local and National Plan Policies. It is therefore recommended that permission is granted subject to conditions."

Planning documents suggest the applicant would like to expand the existing business Icons Lash and Brow Studio, which has been in the town for the past eight years, into Essenden Road.

The proposed opening hours at the premises will be 9am to 9pm on Tuesdays, 12.30pm to 9pm on Wednesdays and 9am to 5.30pm Thursdays to Saturdays. It would not be open on Mondays and Sundays.