PLANS for new signs at a Carlisle city centre bank have been approved by planners at Cumberland Council.

The decision to grant planning permission for the proposed site, at the branch of HSBC at the junction of English Street and Bank Street, was made on Tuesday (August 6).

The application was for both internally illuminated and non-illuminated replacement signage.

According to a heritage statement the Grade II listed building, which was originally a bank, with living accommodation for the manager, and was built in 1849.

It was originally the Carlisle City and District Banking Company with an early 1920s extension for the London Joint City and Midland Bank following a takeover.

The report states: “The architectural and historical interest of this building is significant, considering its age, location and overall architectural merit.

“The site is a significant asset to the surrounding area as it holds a prominent presence upon English Street and Bank Street, within the historic centre of Carlisle.”

According to the report the site is also within a conservation area which further emphasises its architectural merit.

It adds: “The works, as a whole, are to ensure HSBC UK continue to provide the latest services to their customers.

“We believe the proposed works will respect the building’s original features and will not have a negative impact on the building or the surrounding area.”