Flats could add to Preston city living hopes

Developers have applied to transform a four-storey block on Walton’s Parade into 17 flats.

It follows a recent influx of proposals to convert commercial space in the city since the launch of Preston’s City Living strategy.

A design statement reads: “The proposals introduce a new sustainable use within four floors of a vacant office building. The proposal considers its location and context further enhancing the Fishergate Hill Conservation Area and delivers high quality residential space providing much needed affordable accommodation.”

Authority bosses outlined their City Living scheme last year hoping to trigger a boom in residential development, primarily for young professionals.

Several large scale bids have been submitted since, including plans to convert the Red Rose and Elizabeth houses in the city centre into more than 100 apartments.

The plans, submitted by The Heaton Group, will provide 12 car parking and 17 bicycle spaces as the unit is deemed by the applicants to be “within walking and cycling distance from retail and leisure facilities.”