A DEVELOPER has revealed plans for a £4m transformation of a former pub building into a housing complex.

Gradan Homes has announced proposals for the former Raven Lodge site on Church Street in St Helens town centre.

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The developers have described the plans as "possibly be the most exciting development for decades in St Helens town centre" and will "contribute to the overall regeneration of the area".

They said the proposals will bring "much needed footfall to the town centre".

The proposed £4m development would see a six-storey block of affordable apartments with associated car parking and ancillary landscaping.

This would comprise of one and two-bed accommodation, expected to fall within "affordable housing criteria".

The developer has released images of how the proposed development is expected to look once completed, including a sleek zinc mansard roof coupled with brick and stone facades, designed to provide a contemporary modern feel while reflecting the traditional construction materials of the buildings in the surrounding area.

The project will involve the demolition of the original pub building, which is in a poor state of disrepair and has been "subject to frequent vandalism and anti-social behaviour".

They added it is aimed to make the development a "catalyst for the regeneration of this area of the town centre".

Chris Jones, owner of Gradan Homes Ltd, said: “We believe this could possibly be the most exciting development for decades in St Helens town centre and will contribute to the overall regeneration of the area.

"By providing this type of development we will ultimately assist in bringing much needed footfall to the town centre with all residents having access to local shops and leisure facilities on completion.

"This development is at the heart of the town centre regeneration and we hope to commence works on site next year subject to council planning permission.

"As an established local company with a proven track record in delivering this type of scheme, we believe this development represents a significant investment in the town centre and will provide a major boost to the town centre economy, both in the construction phase and through completion.”

The planning application is on consultation until Friday, December 20.