A PLAN to convert Kidderminster town centre offices into a 38-bedroom HMO has been approved.

A planning application was submitted by Penn Investments Limited to change the use of offices on the upper floors of 17-25 Vicar Street to develop a large House in Multiple Occupation, with communal kitchens, cycle storage and a bin store.

There are two buildings which form the site. 17-20, Vicar Street, which is a four-storey, grade II listed building dating back to the 1850s, and 21-27, Vicar Street, which is a three-storey structure dating to the 1960s.

The plan is to combine both buildings and build an additional floor over 21-25 Vicar Street.

Wyre Forest District Council has now approved a full planning application for the development.

Both buildings have retail units at ground level, which will be retained.

The heritage statement for the proposal says: “It will have no significant adverse effects on the character and appearance of the combined site, the surrounding area or on the significance of the existing buildings.

“The design, layout and scale of the proposed development have considered the site’s position within the conservation area and as such no detrimental harm will be caused”.