PLANS to convert a disused Barclays bank building in Ashley Cross into a micro pub have been approved.

Members of Poole council’s planning committee narrowly voted to grant permission for the conversion, despite concerns that the area had turned into “the drinking centre of Poole”.

The application was put forward by 7Bone Burger Co shareholder Rich Zammit last year with the aim of setting up a micro pub called Crazy Camel.

He said that he wanted it to be an “alternative” to mainstream pubs selling “premium craft ales”.

Planning officers had backed the proposal but it was called in for consideration by members of the planning committee due to concerns about the number of eating and drinking businesses already operating in the area.

Speaking at Thursday’s meeting, Cllr Ann Stribley said that Ashley Cross had become “the drinking centre for Poole” and opposed the change from its use as a bank.

“My real concern is not about a well-run micro pub,” Cllr Stribley said.

“It’s the loss of yet another appropriate establishment in a district shopping area.

“We did say some years ago when Mai Tai [cocktail lounge] went in that that would probably be the last one and now we are here.”

Cllr Stribley was told that the council has a policy of having no more than 70 per cent of the premises in any area being for drinking or food but that the percentage in Ashley Cross was only 24 per cent.

Rex Farndon, a neighbour to the premises, also opposed the application, raising concerns about the impact noise from the micro pub would have.

However, Mr Zammit said he was willing to work with residents to create a management plan to reduce the potential for any problems.

“I believe this addition to the Ashley Cross area will be a good one and add to the vitality of the area,” he said.

Councillors agreed to grant permission for Mr Zammit’s micro pub by three votes to two.