A planning application seeks to convert part of a Leek building back into a residential home has been refused.

Leek Nub News reported previously how an application was submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council by a Mr Nick Upright, and aimed to convert the top two floors of 2, Ford Street into residential space.

The space had previously been used as a residence in the past, but was converted into office space after planning permission was granted in 2010.

The application's proposal read: "Change of use of upper two floors of existing premises (formally residential prior to change of use to A2 office space)".

If the plans were approved, the reception area on the bottom floor of the building would have been retained, while the first floor would have been turned into a lounge/dining area, kitchen and bathroom.

The second floor of the building would have been converted into two bedrooms.

The application added that natural daylight would have been provided by the existing window openings in the building.

However, the plans were refused by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council's planning officers last week, with officers stating that the building was last in use for professional and financial services, and not as an office.

A report by the council's officers states: "The application form states that the building was in use on 29th May 2013 (or when last in use when before that date) as an office (Use Class B1(a)).

"However, planning permission was granted in 2010 for the change of use of the upper floors from residential to Use Class A2. The description of development also refers to this permission.

"The last known use of the upper floors was therefore Use Class A2, not Use Class B1(a) as required by O.1(b). The proposal is therefore contrary to this criterion."

If you would like to view the application in full click here.