The upper floors of a prominent building on Bury night time "strip" are set to be converted into flats.

Plans have been submitted to transform much of the Victoria Building on Silver Street into 14 flats.

The space was previously used as offices but supporting documents state that from 2017 to 2019 occupancy rates dropped from 80 per cent to 10 per cent.

The building became fully vacant in 2023.

Silver Street is the centre of Bury’s night time economy and the home of several bars, restaurants and night clubs.

The proposals look to change the use of the upper floors from commercial to residential to provide 14 flats for market sale.

This is split into 10 one-bed bed flats and four with two bedrooms.

If the application is successful all existing windows will be replaced.

There will be no variation in appearance externally as the internal remodelling has been designed to work with the existing openings.

A design and access in support of the plans by applicant, Mr R Sidebottom, said: "The site at Silver Street is located within a central, highly accessible urban area.

“The proposed density of 14 units is compatible with the surrounding urban context, where residential and commercial developments of similar scale are prevalent.

“Given the site’s proximity to public transport links, shops, and local amenities, the proposed density is sustainable and aligns with the objectives of national and local policies that encourage higher densities in urban areas to reduce the need for outward expansion.”

A heritage statement on the the Victoria Buildings, constructed in the late 19th century, say it "is a prominent example of Victorian commercial architecture in Bury".

The application concluded: “Each studio apartment has been designed to meet national space standards.

“The development will make efficient use of the existing building, contributing positively to the local housing stock without negatively impacting the character or amenity of the surrounding area.”