The B-listed former tribunal court has also been used as an office space since it was first built in the late 1800s.

Under the proposals, the hotel, which will be known as The Wellington, would be a combination of ‘boutique hotels and serviced apartments’ while changes to its historic external facade will be kept to a minimum.

A statement submitted to planners by 3DReid explained: “The hotel will be developed by Henly’s Rogue City Hotels to provide a product that provides the best of both boutique hotels and serviced apartments.

“The feel of the Hotel will be contemporary, quality without excess, and clearly not too corporate. Anything that spells ‘chain’ goes against the brand ethos.”

It added: “The proposal is for a change of use of a vacant tribunal court and office building for hotel use.

“The building will remain largely physically intact and interventions and modifications will involve internal works to subdivide spaces, carve out a reception/lobby and entrance area and associated wet and dry works for bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. External works are relatively minor.

“The application proposal does not include a food and drink offer and the access and servicing arrangements will be as existing. Service delivery will take place from the adjacent lane immediately to the south of the building. Cycle parking is provided within the basement garage area. Laundry, deliveries and emergency access can also be taken via this route.”