PLANS to extend a popular nightspot in Westfield Street have been approved.

St Helens Council approved a change of use application in August 2017 to facilitate the extension of Bar 44, along with a first floor extension and creation of a roof terrace to the rear.

The two-storey side extension, along with extension alterations, was approved earlier this month.

The site where the extension will be carried out is currently vacant following demolition work.

Natasha Ayres, the delegated case officer, wrote in her report: “The cellar extension will link with the existing cellar to create a combined storage space.

“The ground floor layout will accommodate ground floor toilets and a smoking area to the rear, along with further licenced floor space and seating to the front.

“The first floor layout will be linked into the existing first-floor bar space to provide additional licenced floor space, to facilitate a larger bar, toilets and a rear roof terrace.”

Ms Ayres said the proposals will help “reinforce an existing business” and will enhance the overall appearance of the area due to the vacant space.

She said the design of the extension and the material proposed are in keeping with the existing bar, which will “harmonise£ with the existing finishes of the bar.

She added that the development would not “significantly alter the character of the street scene”.

The highways officer was consulted prior to granting approval and did not raise any objections.

One representation was made from a neighbouring business-owner, who expressed concerns over the noise and disturbance the extension will cause,

The complaint said the noise caused during the previous demolition work was “not good for business””.

Work on the extension must begin within three years.