PART of B&Q's former town centre home, on Milner Street, could be developed into a builders' warehouse and external storage facility.

Building owner Friends Life Ltd, which is part of the Aviva group, has submitted a planning application for the site.

Proposals include the creation of new entrances and service doors, while part of the external sales area will be used as a builders' warehouse and storage base.

Planning documents also confirmed there will be 190 parking spaces available if blueprints are passed – 10 less than the current arrangement.

Peter Watkiss, principal engineer for transport development control, said the authority's highways team has no objection to the plans after 'considering the use of class changes and minor car park amendments'.

The design and access statement said the change of use 'raises no design issues'.

It added: "The proposals will have no implications for the existing access. The proposals seek to reflect the existing design principles in a manner which maintain a cohesive approach.

"The proposals meet all Disability Discrimination Act requirements. The proposed application site comprises an existing retail unit and is located within an existing commercial area.

"The design solution has regard to the overall design of the existing building and wider area and is in keeping with it."

The application expires on June 19.

DIY chain B&Q closed its doors on Milner Street for the final time at the start of the year.