Plans have been made to convert empty city centre offices in a Grade II listed building into flats.

The offices in South Street, Chichester, have been empty since 2023 however could become six new homes if the plans are approved by Chichester District Council.

The plans would see these flats spread out with two on each storey.

The homes will each have one bedroom, one bathroom and an open-plan kitchen and living room space.

Residents in each of the homes will have access to the external rear courtyard space and will be given storage space for a bike.

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Meynell Hayes Ltd, on behalf of the applicant Mr Prower, argued in the plans that turning the Georgian townhouse back into flats would "contribute to a sustainable and vibrant city centre".

They said that the existing office space has been publicly marketed for sale and rent since March 2023 and had received no offers.

A spokesman for the company said: "Following a period of vacancy, the proposal would sustain and enhance the significance of heritage asset and return it to a viable residential use which would be an appropriate and consistent way to conserve the heritage asset."

Meynell Hayes Ltd also said that some aspects of the building will need to undergo minor changes before being lived in.

These include internal alterations and conservation repairs such as changes to the windows.

The changes inside the building will see modern partitions removed in the most historic portion of the building to allow original features "to be appreciated in its intended form".

Meynell Hayes Ltd said these alterations will allow for a better understanding of the significance of the building.

They said: "As part of the residential conversion, opportunities will be taken to conserve historic features, restore its historic plan form and enhance the visual appearance of the building.

"All work will be of high visual quality using materials, finishes and detailing that have been carefully specified to respect the Listed Building.

"In combination with a thorough programme of conservation repairs, it is felt that the works will help to preserve the significance of the building for the future."

The council will decide whether to approve the plans by July 2.