A FORMER bank in Ilkley could be converted into apartments and retail units if planning permission is granted.

The TSB bank on Brook Street in Ilkley closed on May 27 last year.

Now an application has been made for the change of use of the bank at 27-29 Brook Street. The application seeks permission to form two retail ground floor units, six two bedroom apartments and two one bedroom apartments on the first, second and third floors with a new rear stair core.

It also includes associated external elevation alterations, dormer windows and ancillary accommodation.

The application has been made by ATC Properties Ltd on behalf of Lloyds TSB Bank.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application says: "The proposals have been developed to make maximum use of the building ensuring the built asset is fully utilised comprising retail units at ground floor and residential above.

"The proposal respects the existing architectural language of what is a prominent traditional stone corner building and provides the addition of an extension to West Street that continues this same architectural design, scale, detailing and overall architectural language.

"The whole of the site will be utilised to provide the required accommodation and associated bin/cycle storage facilities.

"The retail/leisure units are proposed to be A1/A2/A3 which will give maximum opportunity to find tenants and enhance the current retail offer on Brook Street.

"The 8 number residential units are proposed as a mixture of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments to provide high quality living accommodation within the Town Centre.

"The existing small retail unit at the rear of 27 Brook Street fronting onto the Public Car Park will remain as existing."

It adds: "It is likely due to the current market demand in Ilkley that the retail and leisure units will be two separate units hence why street access has been provided to both Brook Street and to the rear car park. However should the requirement arise then the layout has been designed to connect these two units to create one larger unit."

A heritage impact statement says: "The proposal has taken full consideration of the Heritage Context of the buildings and the Conservation Area. The proposed works will increase the occupation of the building and improve the vitality of the Conservation Area and the main retail zone bringing additional vitality to the rear car park retail frontages."