An application has been put forward to turn a central former office into a ground floor two bedroom flat in Royston, after owners failed to attract interest from businesses.

Royston Crow: There is an application to change this empty office in Angel Pavement, Royston into housingThere is an application to change this empty office in Angel Pavement, Royston into housing (Image: Archant)

The owners of 10A Angel Pavement have advertised the empty office for a ‘long period of time’ but are struggling to find anyone interested in renting it.

The change of use for the empty premises was put forward by Kilroy Development of Woodford Green and in the supporting document, the developers said: “The office unit has been effectively advertised over a long period of time but there has been no interest at all.

“Demand for such premises as a small office use is now virtually nonexistent as verified by our agents.

“Such small spaces are only suited to a small business but such businesses tend to function from home offices to save on overheads.”

The supporting document also reveals that while the property has been vacant, it has encouraged a degree of fly-tipping outside the area.

The document continues: “There have also been attempts for a break -in and we remain concerned over further attacks especially arson.

“Having considered all options it is felt that at this stage perhaps change the use to residential is a possibility.”

The two bedrooms would be arranged towards the back area and the shop front would be modified and renovated.

The document continues: “There is demand for this use and a change of use will reinstate immediate occupation of this disused unit.”

Letters from the agent to the owner were attached to the planning application, showing a steady cut in the rent asked for the premises – from £1,450 per month in May down as low as £800 last month. The planning application can be found on the North Herts District Council website (reference 15/02776/1).