AN empty office building on the outskirts of Burnley town centre could be converted into a 16-room bedsit.

Plans have been submitted to convert Express House in Church Street, part of the town’s canalside conservation area, into a HMO.

The property was bought by E&M Property Solutions - a local letting agency owned by Tina Etherington and Janice Minihan.

Both are investors in the area and have their own portfolio of single lets and HMOs.

If proposals to convert the building are approved, E&M Property Solutions say the firm would employ a cleaner on a weekly basis to ensure communal spaces are kept fresh and clean and that an eye is kept on the building regularly.

They would also do monthly inspections to manage and to identify and fix any maintenance issues.

A heritage statement submitted as part of the application reads: “The building appears to be in solid condition with no major works needed. All structural works to be advised by structural engineer before any internal alterations are carried out.

"There are no external alterations being carried out apart from re-instating a couple of windows in the basement.

"The existing building will not be altered externally as the materials have a significant appearance such as stone, therefore the general appearance of the building is considerably strong. As the area has industrial influence this will be reflected internally as the owners will create an industrial feel.

"As the building is quite of solid build there is no extensive decay which has left the building fabric valuable.

"The result of the impact of the proposed development on the architectural and aesthetic significance of both the interior and exterior positive.

"In developing the design of the proposed development internally, careful thought has been given to its use, form and character so as to respect the building and make full use of all floors.

"There is no impact externally as there is no demolition/redevelopment so there are no negative actions. As a result, the cumulative impact on the setting of the conservation area will be positive."