EXTRA flats can be built above a Shipley restaurant that is currently being refurbished.

The former Da Tonino on Bradford Road, Shipley, is currently being refurbished, with the owners looking to re-open it as a restaurant.

There are currently three flats on the floor above the restaurant, and earlier this year Mr Chaudry submitted plans to extend the back of the building, over the kitchen area. The changes would also involve changes to the internal layout to create five flats.

The plans were approved by members of Bradford Council's Keighley and Shipley Area Planning Panel on Wednesday.

There had been 11 objections to the plans, with some raising concerns about increased traffic and parking.

But planning officers had recommended the scheme be approved.

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Members were told there would be two parking spaces to the rear of the building, as well as there being parking space at the front of the restaurant that residents could use.

Philip Bakes, representing the applicants, said the existing three flats were "family sized" while the proposed development would lead to more, smaller flats "suitable for couples or single people." He argued that more, smaller flats would not add any great pressures to the area.

He said existing access to the flats was either through the restaurant or via a fire escape. The extension would include improved access to all flats.

Councillor Mike Ellis (Cons, Bingley Rural) said: "This provides much needed new residential accommodation that is right on a bus route. I say we approve officers recommendations."

The plans were then approved