EMPTY offices in "serious disrepair" in Hereford city centre could be converted under new plans from Herefordshire Council.

The council applied for planning permission to turn an office in Blackfriars Street into three apartments for vulnerable adults.

In a design and access statement submitted with the plans, architects working on behalf of Herefordshire Council said the building was in serious disrepair and had suffered from a lack of maintenance.

It showed the three single-bed studio apartments at 4 Blackfriars Street would have "limited cooking facilities", and were intended for use by venerable adults.

"The footprint of the main house will remain unchanged but a comprehensive schedule of repairs and refurbishment will be undertaken by Herefordshire Council to improve the buildings," architects said.

"The layout will make more efficient use of the existing floor area of the building whilst preserving its unique Edwardian period features."

If the scheme was given the green light by planners, it would provide a "long-term initiative to support vulnerable adults".

"The proposal provides smaller three self-contained units for venerable adults managed by Herefordshire Councils

Strategic Housing," the document said.

"This has a huge benefit to the local community and social care.

"These historic building is empty and in serious disrepair suffering a lack of maintenance in recent rears.

"The proposals in this application give the building a meaningful use and will therefore preserve it and its status within its prominent location."

Comments on application 211955 can be made until Thursday, July 8, with a decision expected on Tuesday, August 3.