PLANS to convert a former Dudley town centre bank into apartments have been given the green light by planning bosses.

An application to turn the former Yorkshire Bank building on Wolverhampton Street into six flats has been recommended for approval by Dudley Council's planning department.

The bank left the four storey building in June 2018 and the planning application for the housing scheme was registered in January.

A design and assessment statement for the project states the developers plan to change the second, third and fourth floors of the building into one two-bedroom and five one-bedroom apartments.

The ground floor would be turned into an entrance lobby, with access from nearby Court Passage.

The design report states: "The applicant is seeking a residential development which sets high standards and makes a major contribution to the enhancement of housing opportunities within the urban town centre environment.

"The proposal will provide much needed residential accommodation within the town centre, reinforcing and strengthening regeneration and community."

The plan was recommended for approval this month in an officer's report which states: "The proposed development would not have an adverse impact upon the appearance of the building, or the character of the Dudley Conservation Area. It would provide an additional residential unit within a sustainable location, while reusing vacant floors of a building."

The site lies within Dudley Town Centre Conservation Area and sits beside a row of early 19th century Grade II listed buildings.