The former premises of Lloyds Bank, in Bury St Edmunds, looks set to be developed for new homes in the town.

For plans have been drawn up to create 55 apartments along with parking spaces at the stie on the corner of Risbygate Street and Parkway.

The proposal is to demolish the existing buildings and create 40 two-bedroom, 12 one-bedroom and three three-bedroom units with parking in the basement and ground level including four disabled spaces.

Now Brown & Co, a provider of agency, professional and consultancy services who are based in Norwich, are carrying out a consultation process before the plans are submitted to St Edmundsbury Borough Council.

They say that the proposed development will provide accommodation through a series of interconnecting blocks, ranging in height from three-storeys, adjacent to Risbygate Street, to five-storeys at the southern end of the site.

“This creates a gradually stepped design that follows the natural slope of the site and Parkway adjacent. A conscious effort has been made to reflect the surrounding buildings with the use of traditional ‘buff’ coloured brickwork, recognisable to this area. This will be complimented by cladding elements and windows that protrude from the elevation, adding a contemporary style and interest.

“The buildings shape has been designed to maximise the site’s potential, whilst allowing a sensible distance from neighbouring homes and historical walls to the east and the road infrastructure to the west.

“The proposal would add to the mix and variety of uses in the area and would help to maintain the diversity and vitality of the town centre.

“Residents will be within short walking distance to shops and amenities within the town centre as well as the nearby bus station and railway station links.”

A spokeswoman for the borough council confirmed that the plans had not been formally sent to them and added: “They are not on our planning system yet and we have not seen an application of any description but we do expect this public consultation will be used to support a future application.”

To take part in the consultation go to the website https://www.bac-consultation.co.uk/development/28-34-risbygate-street