PLANS to restore a Grade II-listed building which has been deemed “at-risk” by Historic England for almost two decades are set to be approved by councillors.

But proposals to create 26 new homes on the site and convert the existing buildings into six homes could be decided by the Secretary of State.

Whiterose Apartments, based in Horsforth and run by Liam Wainwright, have unveiled plans that aim to secure the future of the Leaventhorpe estate, off Thornton Road in Thornton.

Some aspects of the hall date back to the 17th century but it has now deteriorated.

Under the scheme, Leaventhorpe Hall would be restored to become two homes and the vacant North Barn would be converted into four apartments, while the East Barn, currently in a state of disrepair, would be demolished and rebuilt to create another four houses.

An additional 22 terraced, detached and semi-detached houses would be built on surrounding land.

Historic England said it supports the application "in principle."

But the organisation called for the council to consider the application carefully, saying: "We hope this approach will help to secure a long term sustainable future for these significant buildings. In particular the vacant hall, which has been identified on the Heritage at Risk Register for a number of years.

"The addition of housing on the site will harm the ability to appreciate the hall and north barn within their rural setting, which is a key aspect of their significance."

Plans for the 18,000 sq metre site include eight three-bedroom homes and 22 properties with at least four bedrooms, as well as 76 parking spaces.

A design and conservation statement in the planning documents says the project is an "essential opportunity" to save the hall and that there have been no opportunities to save it during the past 10 years.

The 1.8 hectare site falls in green belt land and planning documents say the development must be treated as "inappropriate" and should only be approved in special circumstances. But the report says the benefits - extra housing and the restoration of the hall - outweigh the harm.

Planning officers received 11 objections to the plan for 30 homes at the site and two letters of support for the project.

Residents main concerns focussed on an increase in traffic, the loss of green belt land and extra pressure on nearby schools and doctors' surgeries, as well as worries about flood risks.

Supporters of the scheme welcomed plans for a permanent use for Leaventhorpe Hall and the refurbishment of the buildings.

The applicant was approached for a comment.

The council's Regulatory and Appeals Committee will meet at City Hall on February 8 to discuss the application.