PLANS have been submitted to transform another of Basingstoke town centre’s office spaces in to homes.

An application has been made to change Sterling House, in Winchester Road, in to four apartments.

The building, built in the early 19th century, is classed as a Grade II listed building.

Despite its historical architecture, swathes of the building has been altered throughout the years which has led developers RMV Architecture to believe this application would not jeopardise the building’s historical integrity.

A planning statement reads: “Over the years multiple alterations to the original building have been implemented, including subdivision of rooms, conversation of the attic space and introduction of a rear dormer window.

“As a result of the multitude of alterations, very little in terms of the historic internal fabric remains.

The only notable original features which remain and are proposed for retention are the solid timber doors, window boxes and sash windows.”

The development involves changing the offices into three two-bedroom and one one-bedroom apartments, with no change to the exterior of the building.

If planning permission is granted, the site will be allocated seven parking spaces, as well as a secure place to store bikes.

The planning statement adds: “The development proposed makes efficient use of the site in a manner that respects the character of the listed building and amenities of its surroundings.”

However, the Basingstoke Heritage Society, has objected to the plans, stating there is no clear mention of the renewal of the windows, saying that this needs to be set out for the conservation officer to see if it would impact on the integrity of the building.

A spokesman for the Heritage Society said: “Until such time as full details and specifications are evaluated and agreed, we ask that the application should not be approved.”

To view the plans or to comment on them, go to planning.

basingstoke.gov.uk and search for the code 17/03928/FUL.