Plans have been submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council seeking permission to convert a run-down warehouse building in Leek town centre into flats.

The plans were submitted by a Mr Ryan Davies and relate to an old warehouse building on Silk Street just behind the public toilets.

The application asks for permission for "the conversion, alterations and extension of the two-storey former Warehouse and Silk Shade to create three 3-bedroom properties. plus 1-bedroom detached dwelling in place of the former outbuilding."

A statement prepared on behalf of the application notes that the Grade II listed building "has deteriorated over time and is in a critically poor structural condition."

It adds: "It is understood that the building is on the Council's Buildings at Risk Schedule. Without immediate action, the building will continue to deteriorate, eventually becoming irretrievable. This proposed development introduces an economic use to the building that will save it from ruin.

"The proposed development would see the sensitive repair and refurbishment of the Listed Building and secure its long-term use. In turn it would contribute to the economic growth of the Town Centre and enhance the character and appearance of the surrounding area."

The existing warehouse building, the statement notes, dates back to the mid-19th century, and adds that "a complete overhaul" of many parts of the building would be required to make it structurally sound.

The statement concludes: "The proposed scheme will create a commercially viable and sustainable use of the site; thus ensuring it is not only maintained, but enjoyed by future generations.

"The addition of these private-rented, high quality, aspirational properties will help address the need to re-balance the housing stock, thus helping to reduce the levels of net out migration to neighbouring areas and provide a sustainable solution to assist in delivering The Council's target of 320 new homes per year.

"The local community were consulted during the design process and the proposals have been well received with many registering an interest to purchase or rent when complete."

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council will have the final say on the plans at a later date.