Former offices which have stood empty for more than a year in Peterborough could be set for a new lease of life as flats under new plans. 

A planning application submitted to Peterborough City Council seeks permission to convert the first floor of Unit 1F, Forward House, Aston Business Park, to four apartments. 

If approved, the dwellings would sit directly above the Premier convenience store on Shrewsbury Avenue. 

The proposed development would "significantly reduce" the use of cars, the application claimed, with future residents "more likely" to shop and work likely.

Despite the store's strong performance and consistent foot traffic, an average of 13 parking spaces remain unoccupied throughout the day, the plans added.

A planning statement submitted as part of the application said: "These offices are currently unused, and this situation likely continues without a new purpose being found for them.

"The building will convert with general ease to dwelling flats without any major structural works. Office-to-dwelling conversions are acceptable under permitted development review. rights as set out above.

"Technical housing standards have been observed and complied with. We have provided full drawings for local development departments to review."

The proposed development received one objection from a neighbouring unit who described the location as "unsuitable" for residential premises. 

They added: "There is already a large amount of litter as result of the Premier shop and to include residential litter as well will result in a significant negative impact to the businesses on this Business Park.

"This location is a Business Park - it is not suitable for residential inhabitation."

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