PROPOSALS that could see the conversion of storage area to flats in the former Original Factory Shop has been put before Torridge District Council.

The application, made by Dicecrown Limited seeks to convert the first floor of the building into two residential flats.

Both of the flats would be self contained with their own independent access. The first flat would be 63 square metres in size and comprise of two bedrooms, a bathroom and an open plan living, kitchen and dining area.

The second flat would be slightly larger at 70 square metres floor area which would be arranged with two bedrooms, a bathroom and an open plan living, kitchen and dining area.

It was added that there would be a no impact on the conservation area as there would only be new windows visible from the side alleyway on rear in addition to minor external alterations.

The ground floor would retain the commercial unit without a loss of floorspace and provide storage for a future tenant.

In the application, there are also multiple references to a ‘new tenant’ for the ground floor of the building which has lain empty since the collapse of the Original Factory Shop, suggesting that there could be a positive future for one of the town’s biggest empty retail buildings.

The application concluded: “The conversion of the first-floor storage area into two residential flats is policy-compliant, heritage-sensitive, sustainable. Occupiers of the flats will be supportive of town-centre vitality, by working, shopping and socialising.

“There is a car park to the front of the building in The Square, however given the location there will be little need for a car. The flats are appropriate in scale and design.

“The proposal preserves the character and appearance of the Holsworthy Conservation Area and delivers high-quality accommodation without harming the commercial function of the building.”

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

The plans are viewable using reference 1/0783/2026/FUL on the Torridge District Council website.