Plans for flats in former Debenhams building

Spelthorne Borough Council has not specified when a decision will be made

Planning approval is being sought for 63 flats in a former Debenhams department store building in Surrey.

Developer Horizon Homes wants to bring flats to the first, second, and third floors of the building in Staines High Street, while keeping two retail units on the ground floor.

The site is locally listed as a heritage asset, and is within the extended Staines Conservation Area. Debenhams closed the store in 2020.

The application to Spelthorne Borough Council said the mixed use of the entire building would "enhance the character and sustainability" of this section of the conservation area.

The development includes 100 cycle spaces.

Concerns have been raised by members of the public about parking and the pressure the new flats could bring to local services, such as schools and doctors.

The application says: "There is no formal off-street parking provision serving the site, which is not an issue in this highly accessible town centre location, where car free development should be encouraged."