Plans to demolish an old police station and build new apartments in its place have been backed for approval.

Buckley Police Station was closed in October 2017 after officers were moved to a new purpose-built facility at the town's fire station.

The building on Mold Road was later put up for sale, with proposals to knock it down and replace it with a block of nine apartments put forward in mid-2020.

Tier Securities Ltd, which is behind the application, previously said the police station did not have any historical or architectural significance and claimed the development would support local businesses.

The scheme has now been recommended to go ahead by Flintshire Council's chief planning officer despite a small number of residents objecting to the loss of an "iconic building".

The Leader:

In a report, Andrew Farrow said: “The application consists of an outline planning application for residential development.

“The application site is considered to be in an accessible and sustainable location as public transport options are directly adjacent to the site and local services and amenities are all available within reasonable walking distance.

“It is considered that the overall design and massing of the proposed apartment building is consistent with other buildings within its immediate environment.

“The proposal provides a mix of one and two bedroomed apartments to contribute to a mixed and socially inclusive community.

“In conclusion, as the principle of residential development is acceptable at this location, the application is recommended for conditional permission.”

The old police station was closed after it was deemed too large for the three PCSOs who were based there at the time.

A total of four letters of objection have been received against the plans to replace it amid concerns the new development will overlook neighbouring properties.

According to planning documents, the proposals will lead to improvements to the existing access point to the site, with a total of ten parking spaces set aside for residents.

The application will be considered at a meeting of the local authority's planning committee being held on Wednesday (July 6, 2022).