Terry's Chocolate factory in York to become homes

The purpose-built factory was originally opened in the 1920s and closed in 2005

Plans to convert the former Terry's Chocolate factory in York into homes have been approved by councillors.

Henry Boot Developments and PJ Livesey are to convert the building, on Bishopthorpe Road, into 173 apartments.

Planning officers said the Grade-II listed building, which dates from the 1920s, was now in "structural disrepair" and had recommended approval.

The developers acquired the former factory site in April 2013.

In addition to the apartments, the developers also plan a large store on the ground floor of the five-storey factory building.

The factory closed in 2005 when production was moved overseas.

Opened in 1926, the 27-acre site includes four listed buildings all of which are owned by Henry Boot Developments.

The company is developing 14 acres in total and said it was still working on proposals for the rest of the site.

David Wilson Homes is developing homes on the remaining 13.5 acres.