PLANS to convert a derelict city centre building into flats look to finally be back on track over a decade after they first emerged.

An application to convert the Stephensons Building on Listerhills Road into flats were approved years ago, but work never started and the former soap manufacturer headquarters continued to decline.

Late last year Rochdale based H M Properties revealed plans to revive the scheme - with some amendments.

As well as a restoration of the six storey structure, including its industrial chimney, a nine storey "residential node" will be built to the rear of the building - on the Listerhills Road side.

Around 120 flats will be created by the development.

The applicants had said they were in discussions with Bradford Council's Social Services Department who could take three floors to house people in the 15-19 age group who were in need of managed accommodation.

The other flats would go on the open market.

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In its application the company said: "At present, and for many years this building and associated land have presented a sorry spectacle on a prominent site that fronts one of the major accesses into the City Centre.

"With a permission in place for the revised drawings this situation will change dramatically for the better.

"As can be seen from the drawings, this proposal not only offers regeneration and a very significant yield of residential units but will provide for a statement building on a key site."

The applicants have been contacted for a comment on the approval.

The building was once earmarked for a major regeneration as part of the Listerhills Village plan - a £90 million scheme that would have seen the area transformed into a mix of shops, offices, student housing, a shop and medical facilities.