PLANS to convert an “unusual” and “long-neglected” high street building into flats and a shop have been created.

Developers are seeking planning permission to turn the building in Wimborne Road, Winton into a block of 10 flats, with space on the ground floor for a retail unit.

The building was originally a fire station but closed and became a factory during the 1960s. It was then acquired by Bournemouth council and housed public toilets before being sold again to Bournemouth University who used it for storage.

The university sold the building and it continued to be used for storage by the new owner.

The developers, Brownsea Build Ltd, want to retain the building’s “characterful frontage” if their plans are given the go-ahead by Bournemouth council.

They plan to convert the front section of the building into a retail unit and residential accommodation, and demolish the rear section to build a new extension with additional flats.

Architects Evans and Traves said the building had “suffered from neglect and is in a state of considerable disrepair”, making it a target for vandalism and graffiti.

“Built approximately 80 years ago, it is a character building.

“Removal of the existing door opening back to the stone surround and inserting a glass shop frontage will better reveal the character of the original building and make for an active and vibrant frontage.

“Such an approach will reduce the opportunities for vandalism.”

They added: “Parts of the rear of the building are failing and as such need to be completely replaced. To bring the building up to an acceptable standard will take considerable investment that can only be achieved through the level of development proposed.”

Each of the 10 flats proposed for the building would be one-bedroom, ranging in size from 44.6sqm to 49.2sqm.

The proposal does not make provision for on-site car parking but each of the flats would have access to at least one bicycle parking space.

“The proposed development will result in a considerable improvement to the appearance of this existing character building,” a spokesperson for Evans and Traves added.

“The proposal is to retain all of the attractive features of the building and remove those features that detract from its appearance. The ramp and railings serving the former public conveniences are unattractive and considered to be unnecessary.”