It is hoped that plans to convert a former printers in Preston into an upmarket office complex will fill a gap in the town’s property market.
Philip Thornton, Etc Urban architect who is working on the project, has said that the transformation of the Lambert Brothers printworks on Glovers’ Court, would attract businesses into the city centre.
The plans will see the building converted into an office unit and a further six units will be built in the neighbouring car park.
Mr Thornton has said that businesses have expressed interest in the office premises.
He said: “We based our designs on the advice were given by our commercial property agents, they told us there was a demand in the Preston market for this type of accommodation.
“People looking to locate into the city centre are looking for medium-sized offices with all the bells and whistles and that is what we are giving them.
“That is what this development delivers and, knowing the people behind it as I do, I am expecting them to get started on it sooner rather than later.”
Etc Urban is a specialist design and architecture practice and have been working on the conversion of the building which dates back to 1899.
Mr Thornton said: “It is not a breath-taking piece of architecture, but I think it is these kind of buildings which give Preston its character.”
Chairman of the planning committee, Coun Brian Rollo, said the existing building was “a mess” and expressed his support for the proposals.
He said: “We were pleased to pass it. It gets rid of an ugly eyesore and will provide wanted accommodation for offices.
“It is a nice development, it is in the city centre, it will provide jobs and get rid of an eyesore.”