Plans to turn an vacant city centre office building into 99 flats are set to receive the green light.

TT Group wants to convert the disused Telecom House in Hanley into residential accommodation.

Planning officers at Stoke-on-Trent City Council say the proposals comply with permitted development rules, and have recommended that the scheme be granted prior approval.

The seven-storey building in Trinity Street was previously a base for British Telecom staff, and despite efforts to find new tenants it is now completely empty.

Under the proposals from TT Group, the offices would be converted into 24 studios, 61 one-bedroom apartments and 14 two-bedroom apartments.

The applicant says the development will be 'car free' with just two accessible parking spaces, but there will be storage for 110 bikes on the lower ground floor.

There will be ground floor entrances onto Trinity Street and Mersey Street at the rear.

Certain residential conversions are allowed under permitted development rules, meaning a full planning application is not required. Planning officers believe the conversion of Telecom House is acceptable, subject to conditions.

In relation to transport, the planning report says that the building is in a 'highly sustainable' location in the city centre, within walking distance of amenities including the bus station.

A survey found that noise from nearby commercial buildings was within acceptable levels.

The report notes that the former ST1 nightclub, which closed several years ago, sits next to the building, and while it could in theory reopen, this cannot be considered a reason for blocking residential development.

The report states: "The proposed change of use is considered to be acceptable in relation to the limitations and conditions contained within.. the General Permitted Development Order.

The application has been supported by relevant technical details which confirm that the proposals are acceptable in these respects. Given this position, the application is recommended for approval subject to conditions."

Potteries Heritage Society has made comments in support of the application, although members have raised concerns about the entrances on Trinity Street not being suitable for access at night. Members of the planning committee will consider the application when they meet on Wednesday, June 4.

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