DEVELOPERS have launched a bid to transform a former fire station into new flats.

Plans have been submitted to Braintree Council in a bid to get permission to make changes to the former fire station in Swanside, Braintree.

Located in the Braintree Conservation Area, the fire station’s water town was previously converted to residential use.

Planning permission was also approved to convert the main fire station building into a restaurant and bar as well as a fitness and health centre.

However, despite advertising the premises since 2012, no tenants for the restaurant or gym have been found.

It means developers are seeking to find a new use for the main fire station building.

The application sent to Braintree Council aims to create four one bedroom flats.

According to the proposals changes to the exterior of the building would be minimal and developers say it won’t harm the character and appearance of the Braintree town centre.

The planning application says: “The applicant has researched the local need for flats and with the town centre location particular requirement has been identified for one-or two-bedroom apartments.

“Difficulties found to let the Fire Station for the last nine years have resulted in the need for change of use to residential.

“The proposed change to divide the fire station into four good sized apartments does not conflict with the Local Plan for Braintree, which supports the creation of new dwellings and diversity in the town centre.

“The proposal does not dramatically affect the external appearance of the property, which remains the same other than the addition of three low level windows.

“The character and appearance of the Braintree conservation area is not affected by the proposed changes of the conversion.

“The proposal change of use to divide former fire station to accommodate four additional one-bedroom flats is justifiable.

“It provides additional accommodation in Braintree town centre and it does so without any detrimental effect on the Braintree conservation area.”