NEW plans to transform a derelict high street building have been unveiled.

Grace Charles London is seeking permission to change the use of 76-78 High Street, Braintree, and convert the 15th century building into seven flats.

The building, which was the previous home of the Times, is allocated as offices at present but the developer says the conversion will help to remove harmful additions made to the building in the past.

The Times moved out in 2016 while Blast Comics moved out in May 2017.

Plans to convert the building into flats were approved in September last year, but applicant Stallan Braintree has yet to press ahead with the conversion.

The latest application would see the bottom floor of the building used for commercial purposes, while three flats would be installed on the first and second floors.

An extension at the back of the property would then create space for a further four apartments.