PLANS to convert part of a bridal shop and beauticians in Kendal into a ground floor flat have been given the green light as the business is not ‘financially viable’.

Westmorland and Furness Council has approved plans from Mrs Rumney to convert part of the ground floor of Frothimoon Bridal on Stricklandgate into a one-bedroom flat for rent.

The proposals involve retaining the front area of the ground floor shop as retail space to be used as its current business.

Planning permission was previously granted to convert the whole shop into a flat but this has now lapsed.

The heritage statement says: “To run the business is not financially viable anymore and the owners are looking at ways to diversify with causing the minimal impact on the area and its heritage.”

The proposals also involve replacing the existing windows with double glazed glass and raising the window sill.

Westmorland and Furness Council approved the planning application on February 6.