A FORMER village bank which has fallen into a state of disrepair looks set to be turned into flats despite the lack of parking on offer.

The former HSBC bank building on Well Street in Cefn Mawr was originally built in the 19th century, but has stood empty for almost a decade following the bank’s closure.

Plans were submitted to Wrexham Council in May this year for the property to be converted into seven flats.

The application, which would also see the creation of a new extension, has now been backed for approval by planning officers.

The recommendation has been made despite community leaders and neighbours raising concerns over the lack of parking spaces provided as part of the scheme.

In an objection letter lodged with the local authority, one resident who lives nearby said: “The redevelopment of the derelict building is welcome, however the provision of no parking is unacceptable.

“There are already severe parking problems in this area with the roads and footways often being blocked due to parked vehicles.

“The bus route that used to run past the building was diverted because the buses were not able to get through.

“While there is a bus stop close to the building outside Tesco, it requires a convoluted walk to get there.

“Due to the lack of local facilities and local jobs, it is impossible to live in Cefn Mawr without access to a car.”

Both Cefn Mawr Community Council members and county councillor Derek Wright have also raised similar issues.

However, the council’s chief planning officer has recommended the plans should be approved as he said it would improve the appearance of the area.

Lawrence Isted also claimed future residents living in the flats would be unlikely to own a car.

In a report to councillors, he said: “The former bank is a building of visual interest within the Cefn Mawr Conservation Area and makes an important contribution to the historic interest, character and appearance of the street scene.

“It is also located within the buffer zone of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal World Heritage Site.

“Unfortunately due to vacancy the building has been neglected in recent years and is in a state of poor repair.

“The proposals, which seek to restore the frontage and bring the building into residential use, are therefore supported in principle.”

He added: “The site is considered to be in a sustainable location, and in view of the lack of parking provision, the proposed one bedroom apartments are more likely to appeal to people who do not own a car. Cycle parking is proposed within the ground floor.

“Taking the above points into consideration, there are no reasons to refuse permission on highway grounds.”

The proposals will be considered by members of the council’s planning committee at a meeting on Monday, December 7.