DEVELOPERS want to convert a 17th century mansion into homes.

Maro Developments Ltd said it was the only way to save Toft Hall, which is currently used as offices by three companies.

"The existing use of the hall as offices is economically unviable," said a spokesman.

The company bought the grade II* listed building for £3.5 million about two years ago.

Ruined

Three tenants currently pay rent of £231,000 a year, but that will not be enough to break even over the next five years.

Most of the 133 sash windows and external doors need replacing and at least £15,000 will need to be spent on rendering at the former home of the Leycester family.

Maro Developments are hoping to convert the property into four homes and build a five-bedroomed mansion in the grounds. Three of the properties will cost more than £1million. Maro Developments first met conservation officer Mike Scammell and English Heritage's Peter de Figueiredo in June. The developers have argued that changing uses and unsympathetic alterations have ruined the building.

"The character of the building presently has an all-persuasive institutional feel," said a spokesman.

English Heritage wants a more modern part of Toft Hall to be demolished.

But Maro Developments said not converting the rear wing would cost them and have offered a 'trade-off.'

They expect to make a loss of £600,000 if they are not allowed to build the fifth house.

"In exchange for demolishing the wing it is proposed to construct a detached dwelling within the grounds," said the spokesman.

But the company faces opposition.

Macclesfield Borough Council has been told by the Government that it cannot approve plans for any more new homes until 2011.

However, the company will argue that an exception should be made because Toft Hall will be returned to its original use and the unwanted rear wing demolished. "We want to undo the previous harm to the building," he said.