A PROPERTY company have been told they are able to convert a prominent empty office building in Shipley into apartments.

Empire Property Concepts had applied for planning permission to create 31 flats in Merchant's House on Leeds Road.

Bradford Council has now confirmed that the company is able to make the changes under permitted development rights - introduced to encourage the creation of housing from empty buildings.

The five storey building, dates back to the 19th century, but is not listed. It has previously been used as shops and offices, but is currently vacant.

The properties would be a mix of studio flats and one bedroom flats.