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A former Lloyds Bank branch in Pontefract is to become a pub after planning permission was granted.

The Ropergate branch closed in April after Lloyds Banking Group announced plans to axe 40 branches nationally.

Wakefield Council granted permission for Ropergate Brewery to run the site, opening from noon to 23:00 Sunday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Four people objected, raising concerns over the risk of anti-social behaviour and drink-related crime.

Four full-time and 10 part-time jobs are expected to be created by the new business, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A design and heritage statement submitted to the council on behalf of the applicant said the business would “make Pontefract a vibrant place for visitors and residents alike".

It said: “The applicant plans to provide real ales and home cooked foods. It is planned to use beers and ales made by the applicant and by other local suppliers.

“Produce for the meals will also be locally sourced.”

Recommending the scheme for approval, a council officer’s report said: “The application proposals would encourage investor confidence, provide employment opportunities and help to support existing services and infrastructure.

“It is considered that the proposal would not have a demonstrably adverse impact upon highways safety, flood risk, heritage or local drainage infrastructure.

“It is recommended that a condition restricting opening hours to midnight on Fridays, Saturdays and bank holidays is imposed in the interests of residential amenity and crime prevention.”

Permission was given in May to convert the former HSBC bank, also on Ropergate, into a bar and holiday flats.

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