A PLANNING application to again use a building in the St Austell conservation area as a dental practice has been approved.

The change of use application has been passed by Cornwall Council for the property in Truro Road.

The proposal was backed by St Austell Town Council.

Laurence Associates put in the application on behalf of Florence Phillips who wants to change the use of the building from a dental surgery to mixed use – a dental surgery with residential accommodation above.

Laurence Associates told Cornwall Council the building was in a state of disrepair, saying: “In this case, the applicant seeks to invest in the building to enhance its internal and external condition and allow the building to function as a business/dentist, with accommodation above.

“The existing building exists as a dental practice, although at present the building does not currently function as one due to the relocation of the previous business.

“The building is spread over three floors, with the ground floor being the reception area, and the first and second host to former surgeries. A small loft space exists above.”

The proposed development consists of a dental practice and surgery on the ground floor with accommodation provided above.