New jobs look set to be created after plans were given the go-ahead to transform a prominent retail shop that has remained empty in a town centre for three years.

A new adult gaming centre looks set to be created at a former retail unit in Lowestoft town centre.

Change of use plans were lodged with East Suffolk Council in August to turn the former Burton menswear, and most recently the Limelite fashion store on London Road North, into an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC).

The former retail unit at 78 to 80 London Road North has remained empty in a prime town centre site for more than three years.

A scheme centring around "Change of use of the ground floor from a retail unit (Class E) to an Adult Gaming Centre (Sui Generis) and staff area with external alterations and associated works" was submitted to East Suffolk Council by Bradley Hall Chartered Surveyors and Estate Agents on behalf of the applicant Luxury Leisure.

It said: "The proposed change of use to an AGC would not conflict with Local Plan policies and an AGC use at this location would contribute to the viability and vitality of Lowestoft Town Centre by increasing footfall.

"The proposal would also provide investment in jobs - circa 12 jobs in total being created."

With Lowestoft Town Council recommending refusal of the application "on the basis of noise pollution, anti social behaviour and no economic or health benefits," the scheme was permitted under delegated powers.

A report from a delegated officer at the council said: "It is considered that the proposal is in accordance with relevant policies of the East Suffolk Council – Waveney Local Plan."

Recommending the scheme for approval subject to seven conditions, a decision notice letter from the council stated: "Permission is hereby granted by East Suffolk Council subject to compliance with conditions."