PLANNING chiefs have given the go-ahead for a former bank building in Bradford city centre to be turned into flats.

The plan for 61-65 Kirkgate, next to McDonald’s, was submitted to Bradford Council back in April.

It sought permission to divide the building into three units and create nine, one-bedroom flats on the first and second floors.  

It used to be a Halifax bank and later a clothing store but has seen “little interest” in the time it has been empty, the application said.

A decision report for the application said: “The changes proposed are considered to have a positive impact on the public appearance of this property and the character of the area, raising no significant issues.”

It said the proposal will retain an "active frontage" at the ground floor level and the design is considered to accord with planning policies.

It added: “The building is within a prominent location within the conservation area, but is appraised as making a neutral contribution to its character.

“The changes to the front will be publicly visible but are consistent with the modern pattern of development seen on this site.

“The changes to the frontage and the windows are to be of a high quality and will add to the character and appearance of this conservation area.”

The report said some issues were raised by the Council’s Housing Standards Team, though these have now been addressed “with the proposal introducing 9 new apartments that meet the Nationally Described Minimum Space Standards in both room size and overall size”.

It added: “There are windows to all habitable rooms and each property is considered to benefit from sufficient light and outlook.

“It is acknowledged that none of the apartments will benefit from any private outdoor space, however this is a city centre location, and the agent has made the point that the new apartments will be within walking distance of a number of publicly accessible spaces and facilities.

“Taking this into account and considering the previous permission on this site, not providing this space is not considered to have a detrimental impact on future occupants given the local offer.”

In granting permission, planning officer Jacob Muff said: “The proposal is considered to provide a good standard of living accommodation for future residents and is not considered to present and significant impacts on the built environment, heritage assets, highway safety, biodiversity or neighbouring occupants.”