Plans unveiled to create six flats above former Nationwide branch in Wrexham

Plans have been unveiled to create six flats above a former building society in Wrexham.

Nationwide relocated from its branch on the corner of the town’s High Street to a larger unit on Regent Street back in January.

The property has stood empty ever since and proposals have now been entered to convert the upper floors into living accommodation.

It would also see the ground floor refurbished and retained for commercial use.

In a planning statement, consultants acting on behalf of applicants Courts Developments said the scheme would help to improve the town’s economy.

They said: “The proposal will regenerate a vacant site and in doing so, will activate the corner of Hope Street and High Street.

“The proposal will create a mixed-use development which will enhance the vitality and environmental quality of the area and provide natural surveillance through the addition of ‘eyes on the street’.

“Retention of an A2 ground floor use will ensure the site continues to provide a commercial offer to maintain activity on the High Street within the day.

“More residents will be brought into the town centre, creating an uplift in local spending on goods and services within Wrexham.

“The proposal will provide reasonably priced rental accommodation designed to attract young professionals into Wrexham.”

A spokesman for Nationwide previously said its move to Regent Street would provide customers with “a bigger and better site”.

The application for the old branch will be decided by Wrexham Council at a later date.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter