Changes to a former newsagents in Winchester have been permitted by the city council.

The application was to change the use from a mixed-use building to all residential C3 at 34 Hyde Street.

Also for a rear extension and internal alterations as well as an enclosure and gate along the south boundary.

The property was vacated by its previous tenant at the beginning of November last year with the works being carried out, but keeping the original shop frontage.

The planning application was submitted to the city council by the director of 34 Hyde Street Limited, Guy Macklin.

READ MORE: Hyde Newsagency looks set to close

Mr Macklin previously said that it was important to the company to keep the shop frontage has it has a longstanding legacy in the area, with a shop first opening at the property in 1894.

It was then acquired by Edith Best in 1925 and was managed by her son Leonard and then by his son, Eric.

The shop, which is at 34 Hyde Street, was closed during the war and when it reopened, it became a newsagents.

Despite the plan being permitted, there were objections submitted to the city council.

An objection from the City of Winchester Trust said: “The trust has no issue with the change of use. However, this is a listed Grade II building in a conservation area.

"It was felt that with these designations, the proposed amendment for rear ground and first floor extensions should use traditional forms and materials that are in keeping with the character of the building. We therefore object to the application.”

Christopher Cutler, of Hyde Church Lane, said: “I would like to formally object to the proposed plans for 34 Hyde Street on the ground of it not being in keeping with the conservation area. I am also concerned with the affected light levels in my neighbours' houses.”

SEE ALSO: Planning application submitted for former Hyde Newsagency

Mr Macklin explained that a new business had been sought to take on the property, however none were suitable.

He said: “We had enquiries from many sectors including dentists, doctors, architects and publishing. The commercial space didn’t work for these applicants and after discussion with the LPA, the most logical route forward was conversion back to a single house.”

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.