PLANS to convert a former Meirionnydd bank into bunkhouse accommodation have won approval from council officers.

The former HSBC bank in Tywyn shut its doors in 2016 before being bought by RD Development a year later.

The developers initially planned to let out the High Street site for commercial use but opted for a change of plan after it failed to attract any interest.

According to the design and access statement accompanying the application, the exterior will need to be renovated as its showing signs of disrepair.

“We have recently been granted planning permission on 22 High Street for the use of a cafe which is adjacent to the proposed application and will form part of the proposed development once approved.

“We aim to achieve 5-star accommodation and therefore have taken the opportunity to layout the accommodation to best help support the achievement of high-quality provision.

“The site is ideally suited for Bunkhouse accommodation and the proposed change of use will produce a positive contribution to the local area in terms of economic development, employment and the regeneration of the town.”

According to the developers, the new project will create jobs and also bring extra tourism money into the local economy.

Officers, in a decision notice posted on 4 December, adjudged the development to be acceptable without the need to go in front of the planning committee after no objections were raised during the consultation period.