PART of a former bank looks set to be extended and converted into offices under new plans. The building known as the Bank House in Pershore High Street, which was previously home to HSBC, would be extended at the rear to create more space for offices and meeting rooms.

A three-storey extension would be built at the rear of the building and a new lift would also be installed, according to the plans. A modern extension would be also demolished to make way for the new extension and create more space for meetings and events.

A similar plan was put forward at the start of last year but was refused by the council over fears it would be overbearing and disruptive for neighbours.

However, several refurbishments were carried out to the front of the listed Georgian building last year. The building served as a bank before closing in 2016 and is now home to investment company Spirit Ventures.

Pershore Town Council raised no objection. The plans were first put forward in February last year but despite getting listed building consent from Wychavon District Council, the main plan was refused. Council planners said the economic benefits did not outweigh the harm it would cause, the extension would be overbearing and would result in a loss of privacy for neighbours. Outlining its refusal last year, the council said: “The extension element of the scheme fails to represent an acceptable form of development, insofar as it adversely affects the living conditions of occupiers in adjacent properties in the High Street by virtue of loss of light and outlook and an overbearing impact upon windows and rooms in the facing side elevation resulting from the proposed rear extension.”