Plans to turn the upper two floors of a Grade II listed building in Ashby into six flats have been resubmitted to North West Leicestershire District Council.

The original scheme to convert 60, Market Street, into apartments, was by a Mr Arthur Holland was given the go-ahead two years ago.

The site is above a charity shop, which does not form part of the application - and is also next to the Manhattan's nightclub.

North West Leicestershire District Council allowed the orginal development to go ahead after amended plans were received during the application which originally was for seven flats.

This was following concerns raised by the Conservation Officer that there could be a 'large loss' of historic fabric as a result of the proposal.

A potential loss of the chimney breasts and the window detailing was highlighted and has since been amended.

The building is next door to the former HSBC Bank building which is now the Centivo Bar.

The building is in a prominent position in Market Street. Photo: Ashby Nub News

A Heritage Statement, issued with the latest application, mentions the building's former use as a massage parlour.

It reads: "The building 60 & 60A are used as a shop and offices, accessed via an alleyway off Market Street.

"Most of the ground floor is occupied by a single retail unit; a staircase opening on to the side passage gives access to offices which occupy the first and second storey of the front block.

"The first floor of the rear blocks was used as a massage parlour which is occupied by a self-contained suite that could be accessed from the rear of the property, however this business ceased trading a while ago. This site is also within a conservation area.

"This is a detailed planning application for the proposed changes of use of the building from a commercial property to self-contained residential flats with internal alterations only.

"The proposals complement local architectural styles and does not have an adverse effect on any adjacent buildings or the listed building itself."

In conclusion, the statement reads: "These proposals will preserve the setting of the heritage asset.

The proposed plans will promote and enhance the area as well as making use of a currently vacant and run-down building.

"The building is in need of repair and restoration work. The planning proposals highlighted in this application provide a genuine opportunity for investment in a high-quality restoration area where the building will be secure in the long term.

"The proposed plans would bring an improvement to the character and appearance of the conservation area and would improve the overall setting of the listed building.

"The building will be designed in a style that will provide robustness and longevity, that will in turn contribute to the enhancement of the local environment."