PLANS to beef up security at one of the District's most protected heritage buildings have been approved.

Last year Saltaire United Reform Church, a Grade I listed building in the heart of the World Heritage Site, was awarded funding from the Government’s Places of Worship Security Scheme Grant.

A planning application was then submitted to install CCTV cameras around the building, with the church saying the building needed a "modern security system."

The application was approved by planning officers this week.

Officers said: "There has been evidence of serious vandalism and many incidents of antisocial behaviour at this site.

"The interventions are considered to be as minimalist and reversible as possible in relation to the level of need.

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"There is considered to be less than substantial harm to the character and appearance of the Grade I Listed Building, which is outweighed by the public benefit of the need to protect the building and users from theft, vandalism, damage and other inappropriate behaviour.

"The proposed works will have a minor adverse effect on the character of the Listed Building which is outweighed by the public benefit to provide security at the site."

The church was built by Sir Titus Salt in 1859, and is considered a fine example of Italianate religious architecture.

It was designed by local architects Lockwood and Mawson - who are behind some of Bradford's grandest buildings.

It includes a mausoleum where Sir Titus and his family are buried.