PLANS have been submitted to turn a former engineering store into two studio flats. 

The application is for change of use from a former store at 5 Court Street, Trowbridge. 

The site was used for the storage of materials used by Wiltshire Steeplejacks - a company of lightning conductor engineers - for more than 40 years.

The company relocated to a new purpose built premisses in Eastbourne Road in May, which is why it is now vacant. 

The application is for a pair of bedsits/studios, which the planning documents say the current housing market in Trowbridge has a shortfall of. 

The documents add: "The building falls within the limits of development for Trowbridge where there is a presumption in favour of sustainable residential development opportunities. The principle of two bedsits/studios in this vacant buildingt should be supported."

Court Street and Castle Street in Trowbridge fall within the Conservation Area and as suchg as the existing front of the building will be retained, with the exception of the two entrance doors and frames. 

The applicants add that the site is sustainable with the townb centre, shopping facilities, bus and railway station all accessible within a few minutes walk from the site.