PLANS to convert the first floor of a hair and beauty salon in Penrith into a flat have been approved by the council. 

The application to change the first floor of Creations Hair and Beauty Salon, on Poets Walk, was first submitted to Westmorland and Furness Council on April 25.

Plans were approved on July 29. 

The original proposal cited minimal changes to the structure, ensuring the building's exterior remains unaltered.

The conversion is in response to the town's growing demand for residential spaces, turning an underused area into a home.

It's hoped the changes will contribute to the revitalisation of the building and area.

The salon, which has been there for over 20 years, has no plans of disrupting its services operating on the ground floor.

Penrith Town Council threw their support behind the project, stating: "PTC would wish it to be conditioned that given the high demand for rental properties in Penrith, the development should be used for long-term residential letting and not for short term holiday let.

"Conversion of redundant upper storey space is ideal in this location."