AS PLANS to build more than 300 homes in Bretch Hill are unveiled a further 18 new homes are also now on the way to Banbury.

Last week planning bosses approved two applications to build 10 apartments in a listed Georgian building as well as new homes off Warwick Road.

The historic office block at 51 South Bar Street, Mercia House, will be converted to create the five two-bed and five one-bed apartments.

It is a Grade II-listed building dating back to the 19th Century but has a large, modern extension to the rear and already had permission for business use.

The doors and windows on the south elevation of the building will be affected as part of the changes but they do not face onto South Bar Street.

Cherwell District Council lead member for planning Colin Clarke said: "We consider this an acceptable proposal which will help keep a listed building well maintained.

"This is important if we are to keep the frontage of Banbury’s historic town centre looking its best.

"We do regret the loss of employment space but the property has been empty for a number of years, and was originally used for housing.

"The changes being proposed to the exterior of the building are sympathetic to its character and we are satisfied its historic status will be preserved."

Elsewhere, a total of 20 houses are now set to be built on land east of Warwick Road rather than the 12 previously approved, as part of a development totalling 118 homes.

They will follow the designs already set out but will occupy slightly more land in what Mr Clarke called a 'relatively modest' change.

As part of the agreement the developer, Persimon Homes, will also help fund bus links between the new site and Banbury town centre.