A FORMER missionary convent and listed building is set to be converted into luxury apartments at Holly Bank on Orchard Lane.

Abbeyvale Management Ltd plans to convert the building into 20 apartments and erect two three-storey buildings for a further 13 apartments, all with garages.

It amended its original application after objections were received from English Heritage and neighbouring residents, who were upset about the character of the site being ruined.

Residents were also worried about loss of privacy and amenity.

But the objections were withdrawn after the amendments reduced the complex's height and scale, and retained more of the character of the building - which was built in 1873 and once used by the Sisters of Our Lady Apostles.

A council planning spokesman said: "No further objections have been received following reconsultations which have been undertaken. Significantly, English Heritage have now withdrawn their objections to the proposals.

"The revised siting of the apartment block clearly overcomes the objections raised by residents in respect of overlooking, loss of privacy and amenity.

"I am satisfied that any effects upon traffic and drainage are not so significant as to warrant a refusal of the application."

The council is expected to approve the plans at a meeting of the Development Control Committee next Tuesday.