Derry Strabane Council's Planning Committee has approved converting a former antique shop in Sion Mills into a community facility for Irish language classes.

The site at 5 Victoria Place along Melmount Road covers 0.03 hectares. It holds a two-storey mid-terrace building within the Sion Mills Conservation Area. The building is not listed.

Pobal Mhuileann an tSiáin will use the space to teach and promote the Irish language. The group currently rents other accommodation for classes held four times per week. Attendance numbers have grown, requiring more space. Rental costs are not sustainable.

Council officers recommended approval. The proposal meets a need for the group's operations and involves no changes to the building.

One objection letter cited loss of commercial property, nearby existing community venues and insufficient parking near the A5 road.

A support letter from St. Teresa’s Church stated attendees have permission to use its car park.

Committee members voted unanimously to approve the change of use from shop to community facility.