A PLAN to build an apartment building in the car park of a city centre office block has been put forward.

The proposals would see a new three-storey building with six flats built behind former offices in Foregate Street in Worcester – replacing earlier plans to build a four-storey block with seven apartments.

The former office building is set to be converted into 13 flats as part of separate plans by the same developer Foregate Regeneration – which could soon be joined by more flats in the new smaller building facing Farrier Street.

Worcester City Council’s planning committee approved an application in November last year that allowed for a four-storey building to be built to house seven apartments on the rear car park of the empty grade II-listed former solicitor’s office.

The ground floor unit of the listed building in Foregate Street, which used to be home to offices but has been empty for more than two years following Thursfields Solicitors relocating nearby to The Tything, would remain in place.

The one-bed apartments would range in size from slightly over 37 square metres to 41 square metres.

A planning statement by Nick Carroll Architects on behalf of Foregate Regeneration said the redesigned apartment building should be supported.

“We are confident of council supporting the redesigned building, as was agreed at preplanning, the building is smaller in massing and scale and it relates to the existing neighbouring properties,” it said.

“Furthermore, it reinforces the frontage to Farrier Street and “makes” the street along with natural surveillance for safety at night.

“The urban design credentials are undeniable.

“There is no effect on the appearance of the listed building which remains visible from Farrier Street.

“The proposed building is not a copy but a modern expression employing the golden rectangle proportion for fenestration prevalent in Georgian architecture.

“The design is therefore in keeping with surrounding properties. The form is simple to reflect coach house style buildings. There would have existed a couch house within this plot historically.”

The proposal can be viewed via the planning section of Worcester City Council’s website.

The application number is 22/00254/FUL and public consultation ends on May 7.