Hopes homes at former BT offices will 'boost' city centre economy

COUNCILLORS hope converting an empty office building into 99 flats will boost the city centre economy.

- Phil Corrigan

Planning committee members granted prior approval for the change of use of Telecom House, Hanley.

The seven-storey building in Trinity Street previously served as a base for BT staff since the 1970s, but has been empty since last year.

Applicant TT Group, which owns Telecom House, says converting it into homes will give it a sustainable long-term future.

The accommodation will be a mix of studio apartments and one and two-bedroom flats, with all the homes meeting national space standards.

Members of the planning committee said the scheme would increase footfall in the city centre and help businesses, while retaining an existing building.