A LISTED building could be converted into more homes.

Westlane Apartments has asked Kirklees Council for permission to begin work on the bottom two floors of 15-17 Chancery Lane.

The Mount-based company wants to set up 10 new flats in the building between Cloth Hall Street and Westgate.

The Grade II listed building was constructed in the early 19th Century and has been used as a factory, warehouse and offices.

For many years it was used to make dental products.

The building currently has 16 flats on its upper floors.

Westgate Apartments wants to build 10 flats in the basement and ground floor, including five two-bed apartments and five one-bed.

The company has also asked Kirklees for permission to make external alterations to the upper floors of the building.

VIDA Architecture, of Folly Hall, has prepared a statement for Kirklees about the proposed work.

It says: “The external appearance of the building is not to be significantly altered in any way although some blocked up windows within the rear yard are to be re-opened and one new window opening formed. A new lightwell will also be formed within the yard to provide extra light to the existing basement windows.

“On the ground floor and basement the building, all existing single glazed timber sash windows are to be overhauled and refurbished. Secondary glazing will be fitted to provide acoustic and thermal insulation.

“The upper floors of the building currently have UPVC windows installed by the previous building owner.

“A new rooflight is to be formed on the first floor external deck, to provide light to the inner areas of the ground floor below.

“The rooflight is to be constructed as a traditional timber glazed, pitched roof light typical of the period.”

The report adds: “We consider the proposals for the conversion of former offices and warehouse to residential to have been carefully considered.

“The proposals support national and local planning policies and will maintain and prolong the life and fabric of the building and benefit the town centre as a whole.”

Public consultation on the proposal runs until May 15.