A CONTROVERSIAL bid to turn a former Braintree High Street nightspot into homes and shops has been approved.

The former Bar Sport pub, which closed in 2015 after a brief and troubled existence, can be converted into a commercial unit with ten flats above and in a rear extension.

The bid, approved by planning officers rather than councillors, attracted opposition from some concerned the site was not appropriate for housing.

Stuart Buckley, owner of the The Boars Head pub next door, lodged an objection comment and fears that flats next to a live music venue could lead to noise complaints.

He said: “Let’s hope I was wrong, and the sound doesn’t bleed over. I just think they’re playing Russian Roulette with my pub, they can’t say I didn’t make representation, or warn them of the dangers.

“If I have any problems, I will be reminding them of what’s been said. According to the law, the new occupants can’t complain about noise from the new building. We’ll see in time whether the law works and protects me as it should.”

The application has allowed for the flexible use of the commercial unit, which includes the possibility of shops, financial and professional services, restaurants, drinking establishments, hot food takeaways, and non-residential institutions.

Mr Buckley added: “We desperately need the shop units full, but why would the landlord care, when he has 10 flats paying rent in there and earning him a fortune.

“Maybe all landlords in Braintree should turn our property into housing, it’s clearly the priority in the High Street, and would be far more profitable.

“Fortunately, I care enough about the High Street to keep battling on. Maybe that consideration will have to change if noise complaints make it impossible for us to trade as we do.”

A spokesman for Braintree Council said: “The majority of planning applications are determined under delegated powers with the most contentious applications referred to planning committees where our councillors make the final decision.”