A historic bank in the heart of Bolton town centre could be turned into five apartments under plans.

The building was constructed as a commercial property first used as a business on Deansgate in 1875, but shut around two years ago, with the building being vacant ever since.

The site was first listed at Grade II in 1974 and was formerly William Glyns Bank.

It sits within the Deansgate Conservation Area and is a grand gesture in the Neo baroque style.

Now under plans submitted for the four-storey building, the second floor will be converted into five one bed units, one for one person, and the rest to home two people

Those behind the development say the move could "help stem the feeling of decline" in the centre of Bolton.

Applicants SAR Developments18 have stressed that the plans are an appropriate use for the building.

A statement submitted as part of the planning application by architects Good and Tillotson Ltd, states “The demand for a building of this size for one tenant is low and it is considered that change of use of the upper levels for residential accommodation is appropriate.

“It is also noted that the provision of residential accommodation to the upper levels of existing buildings within towns and cities is now commonplace throughout the United Kingdom.

“Given the mixed nature and uses of the surrounding buildings and notably the increase in the amount of residential accommodation now being provided within Bolton town centre it is felt that residential use is appropriate for the site.”

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Developers also stressed that a new use would help with regeneration.

The statement adds: “The building or premises to which this application relates has now been empty for two years and investment and regeneration is required.

“It is fair to suggest that use of the building by one individual tenant is unlikely and therefore a mixed use with multiply occupants must be considered.

“Given the prominent town centre location it is acknowledged that commercial uses must be maintained on the ground floor, but it is appropriate to consider a residential use on the upper levels.”

A statement has also been prepared by Townscape on the heritage impact of the proposal, which said it could be a positive.

It stated: “My conclusions have found that the proposed works will in heritage terms, result in a slight positive impact to the heritage asset.

“It is my ultimate conclusion however, that the works in fact complement positively the building by reusing a vacant building to create a long term sustainable end use. “The proposed plans retain and restores key features, such as windows, ornate features and the general plan form of the building.

“A degree of subdivision to the upper floors is broadly acceptable in accordance to how the building has been previously used and the reconfiguration proposed.

“The reuse of the building will provide a degree of vitality to the street scene and help to stem the feel of decline in this part of Bolton town centre.”

The remaining parts of the building will be retained as commercial use.