An office building in Stoke-on-Trent could be converted into shops and flats if a planning application is approved.

Gilman Fox Ltd has submitted a planning application to Stoke-on-Trent City Council to change the use of Lombard House on Bucknall New Road, Hanley.

If the plans are approved, the building, currently used as office accommodation, would be converted into two retail units on the ground floor and six self-contained one-bedroom flats on the first and second floors.

The Local Highways Authority has objected to the initial plans, recommending that Residential Travel Packs are provided to promote sustainable transport and cycle storage details are agreed.

The Highway authority said: "The site is located adjacent to a major signalised junction, however, is also located within close proximity to Hanley City Centre which provides access to public transport links, and local services and amenities.

"In addition, there are also bus stops located within walking distance from the site on Bucknall New Road. The signalised junction also provides pedestrian crossing facilities towards Hanley City Centre."

The submitted plans also explain that the four existing parking spaces would be retained.

The Local Highway Authority added: "This is a shortfall when considering Stoke-on-Trent City Council's emerging parking standards however as mentioned above, the site is located close to Hanley City Centre and the adjacent highway network is protected with existing parking and waiting restrictions."

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Environmental Health offered no objections to the plans but recommended that a noise impact assessment is carried out because "the proposed development is in close proximity to a busy road junction, existing retail/commercial premises and also adjoining retail/commercial premises".

Stoke-on-Trent City Council have yet to make a decision on the application.

To view the full application visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Council planning website here.