A RESTAURANT storage area in the Top of The Town could be changed into living accommodation.

Plans have been submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to transform the basement area of the restaurant into two one-bedroom apartments.

The space in Winchester Street is currently used by the Tang Chinese Restaurant as storage space.

In the plans put forward to the borough council it seeks to convert the space into two apartments, whilst retaining the rear entrance as a shared access for the restaurant and apartments.

The new apartments would comprise of one studio unit and one one-bedroom apartment.

In the planning design statement, it read: “The proposed conversion seeks to address the ever-growing need for new housing in Basingstoke.

“This need for small dwellings coupled with the fact that the site is situated in a highly sustainable location within the town centre, makes the proposal of two residential units a positive addition to the housing stock.”

However, there will be no allocated parking spaces for the new residential living units due to the rear access backing on to Joices Yard car park.

The planning statement continued: “However, the non-provision of on-site parking is not considered inappropriate for this site. Instead, it is seen as a benefit when viewed in light of Local Authority’s aim to promote the use of sustainable transport.

“There is excellent access to local amenities, employment, shopping, leisure and public transport.

"The proposed additional unit will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to the housing stock of the borough."

For more information or to comment on the plans visit planning.basingstoke.gov.uk and search the reference number 19/03080/FUL.