The Grade II listed building that was once home to Fishers Solicitors for over 100 years is to be turned into apartments.

An application for a change of use to 'six apartments and one dwelling' was made to North West Leicestershire District Council almost 12 months ago.

Plans submitted to redevelop former Ashby Solicitors offices

Fishers moved out of the historic building in 2019 and are now based in new offices at the Ivanhoe Office Park.

Now the plan is to create more living space in the town.

The six apartments would be provided across the three floors, with the proposed dwelling being within the building's rear projection.

The applicant is listed as John Gillespie Sales Limited, based in Ashby.

Initial plans drew objections from Ashby de la Zouch Town Council who felt there was inadequate parking space at the rear of the building.

But, following the submission of amended plans and additional information, the Town Council has no objections to the proposed redevelopment.

Although it takes away office space in the town, it was felt that its continued use would need any company moving in to create even more parking space.

The Georgian Group registered a formal objection as it considered that the application should be refused.

The Victorian Society endorsed the objection of the Georgian Group and advised that the authority refuse consent.

And the Council's Environmental Protection raised concerns regarding the potential for noise impacts on future residents.

But scheme has also been supported by local residents with one writing to the District Council to say: "I support the above applications for Fishers' Solicitors to be converted into apartments,

"The last thing we need is more empty buildings in town.

"There seems to be another one every week at the minute.

"The sooner it is started the better in my opinion. I can see no reason why it would be kept as offices in the current climate.

"I've noted that the Town Council do not object. Also, I do not agree with the Historical Society's views, especially after the same kind of conversion has just been carried out up the road from this at the old Fallen Knight."

The application was 'called in' to be debated at the Planning Committee stage as the agent for the development, Andrew Large Surveyors Ltd base at Staunton Harold Hall, is related to Councillor Richard Blunt.

A separate application at the same building for internal alterations, including the removal and installation of partition walls, the permanent locking of some doors, insertion of new doors and the installation of sound insulation measures and external alterations including the installation of replacement windows and doors, was also permitted by the Planning Committee.