A change of use application has been submitted to create 18 short-stay flats at Crichton House.

Alterations would include internal partitions, a new fire escape stair, new double glazing throughout, new protective barriers to allow for safe window cleaning /safe access onto balconies and minor external alterations to the entrance to improve the existing lobby roof.

Set within the Old Town Conservation Area, the building was converted to offices 20 years ago.

In a planning statement, the applicant Crichton Hotels working with Studio LBA wrote: “The aim of this project is to restore life to the now redundant Crichton House, which although is not listed, does represent an insight into the local area’s industrial past.

“The proposals seek to preserve the architectural integrity of the envelope, whilst making improvements to all existing windows and doors, which are now failing in some locations and would benefit from replacement.

“The building is in desperate need of refurbishment and conversion to bring life and economy back to this area, and the proposals seek to allow this.”