PLANS have been drawn up to turn disused office space in Greenock into short-term let flats.
The change-of-use proposal involves the basement at 1A Mearns Street, a traditional stone-built 19th century townhouse.
If approved by Inverclyde Council, there would be a studio apartment with an open-plan living/sleeping area, kitchen, and en-suite, and a two-bedroom unit with living/kitchen/dining area and bathroom.
A statement submitted to planners explains: “Evidence suggests this [basement] space was in residential habitation attached to the ground floor flat above up-until the early-mid 1990s when it was turned over to commercial use. The proposed conversion of the basement therefore represents a contemporary re-use of a historically domestic space, consistent with its original function and spatial logic, while upgrading it to modern residential and regulatory standards.
“Both units are designed to meet modern accommodation standards, with layouts that provide suitable space for comfortable short-term stays.
“The development accommodates a total of up to six guests and makes efficient use of the underutilised lower-ground space without extending the building footprint or significantly intensifying its residential use.
“The proposed use is appropriate for the site’s context, offering flexible visitor accommodation within walking distance of local services and transport links while diversifying the local accommodation offer, and contributes to the area’s tourism and economic activity.”
The application is pending consideration by council officials.
