PLANS to convert grade II listed solicitors’ offices into residential accommodation have been withdrawn.

Roger Allanson was seeking permission from Bolton Council to turn Allanson’s Solicitors, in Chorley Old Road, into six flats and three bedsits for market rental.

But his agent Mike Allen said proposals for the early-Victorian ere property had been withdrawn due to the planning difficulties involved with converting a listed building.

A statement submitted with the planning application said were no plans to alter any of the main features or “substantially alter the inside of the building as a consequence of the proposed conversion and change”.

It added that the “philosophy and approach” of the application was to “maintain and preserve the historical and architectural features of the building and preserve its outward appearance, whilst at the same time creating a modern environment to meet modern residential needs.”