THE historic Keep building on the former Le Marchant Barracks site in London Road, Devizes, can be converted into flats.

Wiltshire Council’s planners have approved plans by local builders Gaiger Brothers to create 13 flats in the Grade II listed building.

The four storey building was last used for storage by a war games company and needs substantial repair work done on it.

Objections were received from Roundway Parish Council, which believed the proposed extension was too large for the site, as well as four local residents. The residents said homes in Le Marchant Close and Kings-manor Wharf would be overlooked and the building should be used as offices.

Planning officer Peter Horton said the building’s internal layout and poor condition would be a great constraint to many potential companies.

He said there was no basis to refuse the application on noise issues arising from traffic on London Road or from the Total Butler fuel depot opposite.

In his report granting permission he added: “The proposal offers a welcomed opportunity to restore an important historic building. The principle of residential conversion is acceptable.

“So too is the design, resulting in no harm to the character or setting of the listed building. There will be no material harm to the amenity of neighbouring properties.”