A FORMER office block in Crewe could be converted into flats.

An application has been submitted to Cheshire East Council for permission to convert the top floors of the former offices at Regency Court in High Street into 12 apartments.

Planning permission was granted in 2016 for the building to be converted into 18 apartments, but that permission has now lapsed as work never started.

A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant for the latest scheme states: "These revised proposals now seek to create 12 apartments within the first and second floors of this building and the town centre use units at ground floor will remain."

The proposal is for eight apartments on the first floor and four on the second.

The site has 12 parking spaces which, the applicant argues "would be entirely acceptable given the sustainable nature of the site".

Crewe Town Council has objected to the scheme saying it represents over-development of the site. It is also concerned about the lack of waste and refuse storage, saying bins must not be stored on the street and that the number of parking spaces do not meet Cheshire East planning policy requirements.

Town councillors also said there was a lack of sustainable energy provision, such as solar panels on the roof and a lack of adequate safe cycle storage.

Cheshire East's highways department has made no objection on traffic or parking grounds.

A statement from the highways officer says: "As with the previous application on this site for a greater number of units, this residential use will result in little additional traffic and parking demand when compared to the existing office use.

"It will also have a lesser impact than that previously approved. The parking provision is below Cheshire East Council standards but the proposal is within close proximity, and has footway access, to a range of services and amenities and public transport.

"The parking provision is therefore considered adequate."

According to Cheshire East Council's website, a decision on the application will be made by an officer under delegated authority.

The last date for the public to submit comments is August 18.