A VACANT community church site in Poole is set to be replaced by a new "flexible use" building and six homes.

Worship has not taken place at Sunnyhill Community Church in Sunnyhill Road, Parkstone, since early 2018 and a children's nursery use of the hall also ceased last year.

Bayview Developments (South) Ltd has now successfully obtained planning permission from BCP Council to demolish the existing buildings.

The firm has the green light to build a two-storey nursery and six houses as it "comprehensively redevelops" the site.

A previous application for just residential redevelopment of the site had been refused by the local authority.

A statement submitted on behalf of the applicant by Ken Parke Planning Consultants Ltd for the approved plan says: "The scheme now proposes a new community use on the site in replacement of the existing which are not viable to re-use or repair.

"There is no conflict with the Local Development Plan in this respect.

"The proposals will provide an attractive residential scheme and a flexible use building positioned to address the street scene and which provides modern accommodation which will better provide for local needs.

"The scheme has been designed taking account of the opportunities and constraints of the site and will enhance the character of the street scene."

The houses are all set to be three-bedroom properties with up to 18 parking spaces on the site.

Council planners approved the application under delegated powers.

A reported by case officer Clare Spiller said: "The character and appearance of the area would be enhanced by this new development.

"Residential amenity and privacy would be preserved. Sufficient parking is provided and highway safety preserved."