PLANS to refurbish a building on one of Bradford's main shopping streets have been approved by Bradford Council.

Last year a planning application for works to 71-75 Kirkgate was revealed.

The plans would see the ground floor shop unit divided into two smaller units. Two extra storeys would be added to the building, and the upper floors would become 10 apartments.

The shop unit was empty when the application was submitted in August, and is currently used as temporary studio space by community group Proper Cycling.

Planning officers have now approved the application, submitted by a Mrs Altun.

The application had said the property was in in "poor condition"and was unlikely to attract the investment needed to improve it without any additional income from flats.

When approving the scheme, planning officers said: "There is considerable policy support for the provision of retail and residential uses on the site and within its vicinity.

Which city centre sites have been allocated for housing in Bradford's Local Plan?

"The site is situated in the city centre and also within the allocated shopping and markets area, an area for small independent retailing and leisure uses, with the addition of residential uses into the area.

"The proposed additional storeys will appear as a contemporary and bold addition to the property but it is not considered that this will appear out of place as it has been carefully considered and is respectful of the simplicity and scale of the host property.

"The property has been vacant/underused for some time and has previously undergone some unsympathetic alterations to the shopfronts.

"Situated in an area of prime focus for housing, employment, shopping, leisure, education, health and cultural activities and facilities in the District, it complies with planning policy requirement whereby first priority is given to the re-use of previously developed land and buildings and the more efficient and effective use of existing developed areas within the city.

"Sustainable reuse of the building helps to ensure a safer and more secure environment, reducing opportunities for crime."