AN empty historic Bradford building could be brought back into use as a development of 45 one and two-bedroom apartments.

Plans for the Canal Road building, formerly occupied by Ibatex Ltd for office space, were initially lodged back in 2016, but have now reappeared on Bradford Council’s planning portal after previous approval lapsed.

At the time, Bradford Council ruled that prior approval was not required for the development and, commenting on the plans, Conservation Officer Jon Ackroyd said: “This imposing five-storey building appears to be of late 19th century construction.

“Despite its neglected condition, the building makes a positive contribution to the conservation area, and complements the powerful sense of enclosure derived from a continuous tall frontage to the eastern side of the road. This part of the conservation area has a very distinctive and cohesive sense of place.

“The rehabilitation of the building is welcomed to ensure its continued positive contribution to the conservation area. Full planning permission will however be required for any external changes affecting its appearance, including replacement windows.”

He added: “The principle of conversion will maintain and enhance the character of the conservation area.”

According to the application, the building, which is not listed, was last in use in January 2012.

Documents submitted for the development say: “We believe that the conversion of the existing vacant property into apartments meets with the context of local planning policy and unitary development plan and will provide a much needed input of new good sized residential in this city centre location.

“The proposed works will seek to respond to the Bradford Heritage practice guide and look at the existing assets and evaluate them for extent, significance and any works which impact in the existing asset or feature both externally and internally.”

The application adds: “The building forms one of the most historic and visually fascinating aspects of the original heart of Bradford and its historic context is taken on board with the sympathetic conversion.

“The building was originally built in 1854.

“Its prominence when entering the city centre along Canal Road is significant and its rebirth will add to the city centre’s building stock when refurbished.”

It outlines that the site is fully vacant and the plans will bring about the regeneration of the “key building”.

Commenting on the plans, Highways Officer Aftab Rashid said: “The site is located adjacent to the city centre and close to all amenities including public transport. No off street car parking is proposed, however there is ample on and off street public parking available nearby. And the proposal would reduce parking demand during the day compared to an office use.There are existing parking controls on the local streets.

“Secure undercover cycle parking is incorporated into the scheme to promote sustainable means of transport.

“I consider that the proposal will not have any significant material impact on the highway network and therefore I raise no objections from a highways point of view.”