PLANS to turn a landmark building in Worcester into student accommodation have been revealed.

Leading student property company Purple Frog has unveiled a scheme for a 149-bedroom student accommodation scheme based at the YMCA in Henwick Road.

And the plans will be put before the public at a consultation meeting on Thursday.

The project will see the conversion of the grade-II listed building, preserving its historic Gothic facade, while revamping the interior to include a gym, study facilities, communal spaces, en-suite rooms and studio flats.

Purple Frog’s managing director Patrick Garratt said: “Worcester is a city we’ve had our eye on for a while now.

"Its prominent student population and its growing recognition as one of the region’s leading higher-education institutions means that there has never been a more exciting time to get involved with the university.

"There is clearly demand for high-quality student accommodation and we’re looking forward to meeting that demand and providing a proper level of service to the tenants, the landlords, the investors and being good neighbours within the local community."

Purple Frog and its partner, PFHD Worcester, are working closely with Worcester City Council, planning consultants Malcolm Scott Consultants and DJD Architects.

Should planning permission be approved, a handover period has been agreed with the current occupants to ensure that they are relocated before work begin.

James Pugh from DJD Architects said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to secure the future of one of Worcester’s most notable Victorian buildings while contributing to the growing success of the university.

"The investment in the historic fabric made possible by the contribution of additional new accommodation will put the building in good shape for many years to come.

"It will be rewarding to see the building continue to help shape the lives of the young people who pass through its doors, as it has done for more than 150 years already.”

The site is still awaiting planning permission, and a drop-in public consultation has already been scheduled at the YMCA on Thursday between 3pm and 6pm. Local residents and businesses will be welcome to pop in to discuss the scheme.