Empty offices in Wrexham town centre could be converted into flats

An empty office building in Wrexham could be turned into flats to create living space for people working in the town centre.

The property on King Street was most recently home to law firm Slater and Gordon.

However, it has stood empty for three years after the company closed the branch in January 2018 under proposals to reduce its estate.

An application has now been submitted to convert the building into five flats.

It follows a number of similar schemes being approved nearby as part of a move to encourage town centre living.

In a planning statement, consultants acting on behalf of applicant Mr M. Palamarczuk said: “The existing building currently has a B1a class use of a commercial office. It has however been empty for some time with no interest when advertised for rent.

“It is proposed that the building be converted into five flats, which are likely to be used to house those who work within the town centre.

“The actual conversion itself will be likely to be constructed using local labour and skilled trade construction workers.

“This will ensure there is a direct contribution to the local economy. Additional contributions will be made by purchasing materials locally.”

They added: “The owner of the property is local to the area, therefore all financial aspects of the conversion and future proposed use would boost the local economy directly.

“By bringing an empty building back into use, there is a positive impact to the social context of the area.”

There are two existing parking spaces to the back of the property, but the agent said it would be ideally located for people who don’t drive, sitting opposite the town’s bus station.

Each of the ground floor flats would come with a toilet and shower room.

Wrexham Council is expected to make a decision on the proposals at a later date.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter