Plans for a new Jobcentre in Runcorn have been given the go ahead after the current location was earmarked for closure due to fire risks.

Concerns were raised about the existing facility inside Andrew House at the Shopping City following a safety inspection, with the search for a new site settling on two downstairs units at neighbouring Trident Retail Park.

Plans were then submitted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to merge the two unoccupied units and refurbish them, plans which have now been rubber-stamped by Halton Council's planning department.

The DWP said it would create a 779 sq m open plan area on the ground floor with back office facilities. The conversion work is set to include installing air source heat pumps, refurbishment and repairing structural defects. Once complete, it will have a workforce of 60 staff including both full and part time positions.

A DWP spokeswoman said all staff will remain at Andrew House until the new premises opens, which is expected to be by Spring 2025.

A design and access statement submitted in support of the scheme, said: "The proposed design aims to provide an inclusive and safe environment for staff and customers, enhancing the thermal performance of the building and applying a fabric first approach to accommodate for energy demand reduction.

"The facade of the proposal is appropriate to the existing site and aesthetically acknowledges the character of the surrounding area.

"By using similar materials, colour palette and massing, the proposal seeks to make the most of modern construction and technological advances, without loosing the style, tone and calibre of the existing building or the site."

The documents said the units were thought to have been built in the 70s but were possibly refurbished in the 90s.

It was announced last year the Jobcentre was set to move from its current location after ‘fire risks’ were identified. A safety assessment deemed the building safe to remain open provided the risk was 'managed'.