A FORMER bank could be converted into flats and shops.

A planning application has been submitted to Northumberland County Council seeking permission to convert the former NatWest building in Hexham into six new flats and two retail units.

The town's NatWest branch closed in 2017.

Plans show the ground floor of the Grade II Listed building, on the junction of Battle Hill and St Mary's Chare, would be divided into two retail units and a ground floor flat, while the first and second floors would be converted from office space into five flats.

Planning documents submitted alongside the application suggest there would be a mix of one and two-bed flats.

The applicant, listed as Mr Chambers, is seeking permission to remove the modern rear extensions.

There would be a new entrance staircase from the restored rear courtyard for access to some of the flats.

Proposed improvements to the shop frontage include new plinths, stall risers, timber pilasters, timber framed glazing and rendered columns. The remaining marble and granite on the ground floor would be rendered in a sandstone colour.

In a design, access and heritage statement submitted on behalf of the applicant, the agent Doonan Architects said the principle of conversion to dwellings is "already approved under the extant application 12/00255/FUL".

They added the first and second floors' layouts have been altered "to allow for a more efficient plan due to the ability to make changes to the entire ground floor".

The statement said: "The proposal will bring back into use a building which is a heritage asset to Hexham town centre, the listed building has a viable use for all storeys of the building. This will ensure that the building is maintained and does not fall into disrepair in the town centre location.

"Proposals seek minimal alterations to the façade of the building, with works being largely retained within its footprint.

"Where external alterations are proposed, i.e. removal of modern extensions, the overall impact of the proposals will be a positive one with six flats and two retail units being created."

Listed building consent is also being sought.

Two new car parking spaces which would have electric car charging points are proposed, along with four cycle parking spaces.