STOCKTON Heath's former HSBC could be transformed into a shop and offices – if blueprints are approved by planning chiefs.

A planning application has been submitted to the authority to change the use of the empty site, on London Road, from a bank with offices and residential unit to retail use and offices.

Details of the shop are yet to be revealed but it is not expected to generate 'any increased noise levels' or 'any material increase in waste'.

If the move is given the go-ahead it is likely to open between 8.30am and 5.30pm from Monday to Saturday.

In the design and access statement application agent JT Design Consultancy said a new access point would be developed at street level.

It added: "The change of use also requires a change to the ground floor frontage of the building to establish a new shop front, together with internal rearrangements and the provision of new access stairs from the front elevation to access a reconfigured upper floor.

"The proposal seeks consent for the change of use of this reconfigured upper floor to enable its use as an office suite.

"The proposal also includes a new shop front as indicated on the submitted drawings.

"In terms of parking provision, there are four off street parking spaces available to the rear of the premises, which would be available and likely split between retail and office users.

"These spaces are complemented by the availability of large public surface car parks within ease of access on foot from the application site and village centre.

"It is contended that the proposal would not intensify the use of the site and in this regard can be seen to entail no material increase in vehicular trips to and from the premises.

"It is not expected that the proposed new use of the property will generate any increased noise levels from those generated previously, either internally or externally.

"The proposed development would not give rise to any material increase in waste which would necessitate any change to existing refuge storage or collection arrangements."

Stockton Heath parish councillor Celia Jordan highlighted the 'variety on offer' in the village as crucial to driving new businesses in.

She added: "It is lively here during the day and night."

HSBC closed on April 8 following an 'increase' in the use of online and telephone banking.

The application expires on August 15.