A FORMER bank in Denton will be converted into eight ‘quality’ and ‘spacious’ apartments if ‘car free’ plans get the go-ahead.
What was TSB on Ashton Road has been empty since it closed in May, but Manchester-based HS Property Group has already got its eyes on it.
And it has applied to Tameside Council to turn it into residential accommodation, with eight one-bedroomed properties proposed.
The Ardwick Green-based firm would build a first floor extension over what is a single-storey area of the building if permission is given.
And it believes its scheme would benefit the area.
Planning documents state: “The proposal will incorporate good sized bedrooms and kitchen, living, and dining spaces with bathrooms.
“Layouts have been created with a quality and spacious feel for the residents.
“Floor areas for the bedrooms are above the average standard and spaces are all above the minimum requirements.
“All bedrooms and living spaces are located on the exterior walls to benefit the most from natural daylight.
“All apartments have an open plan layout of a kitchen, living, and diner with plenty of kitchen unit space as well as space for some sofas and small dining tables.
“The project increases the volume of the existing building due to the first floor extension, which will house an additional two apartments.
“But the removal of this space doesn’t alter the need for retail space due to the mass of shop fronts on and around Ashton Road.
“Our proposal is therefore considered to comply with requirements to contribute to a balanced mix of retail and residential.
“The site being located within the proximity of the town centre allows the site to be considered an appropriate location for residential development.”
If planning permission is granted, the main entrance will be located to the front and it would lead to the first apartment.
An additional access door is located at the front of the building, which would lead to a small hallway area as well as to the stairs leading up to the four apartments on the first floor.
There is an alternative fire escape/access point through an alleyway at the rear, which would lead to the internal bike storage and the final two apartments to the rear of the building.
It is also claimed the fact there is no proposed on-street parking is a good thing.
Documents add: “It is located within Denton town centre and therefore served well by local services, amenities and public transport links within walking distance.
“Given this, it is considered an appropriate location for a car-free development.”