A BID to convert a shop into a flat in Malvern has been submitted to planners.

The application to turn a kitchen showroom at 198, Worcester Road, into a one-bedroom flat, has gone in to Malvern Hills District Council.

Plans show the flat would have an open plan kitchen-diner and living room, a bedroom, bathroom, utility and courtyard. 

The wider site at 196-198 Worcester Road features a showroom on the ground floor and a six-bedroom Home of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) spread across the ground floor and first floor.

Proposals from Matthew Walker to convert the shop unit at 198 into a flat state that "the existing HMO would remain unaffected."

Worcester News: The site at 196-198 Worcester Road (previously when the shop was a cafe) The site at 196-198 Worcester Road (previously when the shop was a cafe) (Image: Google)

It states the traditional shop front would also remain largely unaffected, apart from a few minor alterations to meet building regulations which include the installation of double glazing and the insertion of two opening windows.

Notes state: "The retail unit is currently occupied by a kitchen company which is owned and operated by the applicant.

"The applicant owns the entirety of the property including the HMOs."

It goes on: "The application seeks to convert the retail unit to residential use."

It adds: "Overall, the conversion is proposed in a modest and sympathetic manner and would preserve the external façade of the shop front, including the timber framing and its special features and thereby preserve its positive contribution to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area."

The application states there is good public transport links and "it can therefore concluded that the proposal is suitable as a car-free development."

The application features cycle parking for up to five bikes which could be used by the residents of the new flat as well as people living in the existing HMO.

Consultation on the application ends on April 20.