'Learning centre' plan for park lodge

The Grade II listed building has been vacant for a number of years

A former park keeper's lodge could be turned into an educational centre for individuals with learning and physical disability requirements.

The council-owned property in Hartlepool's Ward Jackson Park, dating from 1883, has been empty for a number of years.

Lifestyle Northeast said the application would not involve any alteration to the exterior or interior of the Grade II listed building.

The conversion would allow it to serve a "new beneficial role" and would "generate activity within the local community".

Earlier this year the property was advertised to let on the open market by informal tender, with the highest offer received from Lifestyle Northeast.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the company's planning statement stressed the "modest scale of activity anticipated" under the new use "can be fully supported by existing facilities without alteration".

It said: "The reactivation of the park lodge will support employment, generate activity within the local economy and provide tangible community benefits.

"It allows the park lodge to serve a new beneficial role, consistent with its civic and community context, while maintaining the integrity of its architectural features."

A decision on the proposals is expected to be made in November.