A FORMER town centre bank could be set for a new life if plans are approved.

Developers want to turn the former Barclays building into six apartments with a retail unit on the town floor.

The building, on the corner of Cairo Street and Sankey Street, has stood empty for a decade.

The scheme is to regenerate the back section of the building, next to Cairo Street Chapel, with six flats created on the upper floors previously used for the bank offices.

Documents submitted to Warrington Borough Council say the ground floor unit could be suitable for a food or drink use.

They add: "The property has been vacant for a number of years following the closure of this Barclays Bank.

"It is directly opposite The Hive which is currently undergoing a major regeneration which is bringing vibrancy to the area of Warrington Town Centre. This development will further enhance the area and increase activity within the vicinity.

"The proposal will enliven the frontages of the property, generate significant employment opportunities, add to pedestrian flows and positively contribute to the attractiveness and vitality of the town centre."

A longer term aim is also to restore the second floor of the building although this would be dealt with in a new planning application.

The application continues: "The proposal is to regenerate a vacant and deteriorating building that occupies a prominent location adjacent to the Cairo Street Chapel Unitarian Church.

"At this initial stage, it is anticipated that the ground floor of the building would be occupied as a retail shop with scope for a food or drink outlet."

You can see the application in more detail on the council's website by searching 2023/00181/FUL.