A CHARACTERFUL former bank building in Warrington town centre is at risk of further deterioration.

That is unless plans to restore it are not approved by Warrington Borough Council, it is proposed.

An application has been drawn up seeking listed building consent for the Grade II-listed number 97 Buttermarket Street.

The property dates from the 1850s and was built as the Warrington Savings Bank, becoming part of the Trustee Savings Bank in the mid-20th century.

It was decommissioned as a bank more than ten years ago and converted to flats following consent granted in 2015, with many surviving historic features including an elegant stair hall and large committee room.

Among the work proposed is a partial roof repair and replacement, the fixing of guttering, chimney removal and repointing and plaster ceiling and wall redecorations.

It is also sought that windows would be replaced to enhance thermal efficiency, with repairs to existing glazing and timber frames.

Applicant Civitas Investment Management said: “The proposal involves the demolition of flat roofs and the removal of existing rainwater goods for replacement with new sympathetic materials, as well as repairs to the existing pitched roofs and parapet walls.

“The proposal also looks to repair where possible and potentially replace external windows to allow for natural ventilation, which currently is not viable due to windows being inoperative.

“Due to current water ingress from the existing roofs, particularly where there are junctions between roof types and parapet walls, this has led to extensive disrepair to the interior of the property.

“It is necessary to address water damage to the internal flats to avoid further deterioration of the listed asset.”

Plans are currently with the council and will be decided upon in due course.