PLANS to convert a disused industrial unit to a martial arts studio have been approved by Rochford District Council.

The site, in Maltese Court, on Rawreth Industrial Estate, Rayleigh, has been vacant since June last year and rent was reduced to attract interest.

The application was recommended for refusal by council officers due to insufficient parking.

Chris Barnes, who submitted the plans, spoke at the meeting and assured members that parking would not be an issue as there is ample street parking in the area after 5pm, when most of his classes would be running.

The plans were approved unanimously under the condition that it was restricted to use as a martial arts studio with no more than 15 users at one time and only one-to-one sessions take place before 4pm.