A FORMER social club in Pimhole which has been plagued with problems is to become a corner shop serving the community.

Planning permission was granted to turn Philips Liberal Club, on the corner of Hurst Street and Tinline Street, into a shop with ancillary office and store.

Members of the planning control committee voted unanimously in favour of the scheme on Tuesday evening, after two previous attempts to change the building's use had failed.

Speaking in favour of the scheme, Pimhole resident Harry Reid said: "This is a facility which has had many problems in the past. There has been nuisance, anti-social behaviour and other problems. I think the recommendations will be an asset to the area. It is also an opportunity for the employment of local labour, as I believe two jobs will be created once it is up and running."