A FORMER estate agents in the town centre could become apartments and small retail units if proposals are approved.

Plans for the building on the corner of Sankey Street would see a two-storey extension built to the side and rear, which would create 14 apartments.

The ground floor will continue to be used for retail purposes, but work would be undertaken to split the space into four smaller units.

Malt Developments, who submitted the plans, say that this would create 12 full-time jobs and 15-part time roles.

No onsite parking spaces are included but the plans provide a cycle storage area should any resident choose to use the facility.

In its design and access statement, Malt said: “Our market research for this area has shown a trend of large retail spaces being vacated, with major examples being the former Poundland and Marks and Spencer sites.

“For this reason, we are aiming our proposals at smaller retail units for start-up businesses or businesses with more specialised needs rather the mass market.”

The proposed extension would be in-keeping with the design already adopted by the building including the configuration of windows.

To see the plans in more detail, visit warrington.gov.uk.