A PLAN has been lodged to transform a neglected retail building on Dudley high street into a complex of 15 flats.

The building, which sits next to Argos at the upper end of the high street, would be overhauled into three floors of flats with retail space on the ground floor, if the planning application is successful.

If implemented, the rear block of the building will be adapted to create an internal communal courtyard and the flats will also include rear side balconies.

The building will include ten covered car parking spaces, two of which will be allocated for the commercial unit, alongside16 cycle spaces.

The Heritage Statement included in the application reads: "The proposal will allow the building which has been vacant and neglected for a number of years, and left to decay, to be regenerated as the shop front and windows above are in poor quality condition and needs to be replaced."

It also claims that the design will be 'sympathetic' to the high street and provides 'suitable residential accommodation for an urban setting'.

The statement concludes: "It is considered that the proposed extension is sensibly designed, proportioned and respects the setting, character and appearance of the conservation area."

The application was lodged by KVision Property London Ltd, who in the statement insist the design 'positively' adds to the character and appearance of the high street.

The application, numbered, P18/1568, is open now for comments.