AN application has been submitted to turn a Grade II listed building in Ulverston into housing.

The proposed development will see Ford House converted into four two-bedroom flats and a five-bedroomed house.

Previously owned by the Ford Park Community Group, the house and a section of land was sold off to help clear the group's debts.

As it stands, part of the ground floor of the property is let to Cumbria County Council but the rest of the building is now not in use.

Alison Alger, the centre manager for Ford Park Community Group said that she liked the plans and would be happy to see the care and money invested in the house.

"I would be pleased to see the care being invested to bring the house back to its glory," she said. "It's looking very sad and unloved and it needs nurturing."

The planning application, submitted by Cassidy and Ashton on behalf of Ulverston property developer Modlar Ltd, will change the use of building from offices to residential.

A series of meetings have been held with the chairman and CEO of the Trustees of Ford Park and documents submitted by Cassidy and Ashton said that it was understood that the Trustees support the principle of the redevelopment.

The application includes alterations to the roof and windows, internal works, an extension, works to boundary wall, car parking and landscaping.

The proposed extension to the north-east side of the property would provide additional living space and be a 'modern and contemporary design' with stone cladding and large expanses of glazing.

"It will provide a modern use for the building whilst recognising and protecting its significance," a heritage assessment submitted to South Lakeland District Council said of the application.

"Every effort has been made to ensure that the works proposed sit comfortably with the character of the existing building, are subservient in scale and will enhance its existing appearance."

"The buildings conversion and redevelopment for residential use will give this building, which is underused, a long-term viable use."