Revolutionary plans to convert an historic building into a six-bedroom hotel have moved a step forward.

John De Bruyne has submitted a planning application to change the use of Mill House, in Halstead, from offices to a hotel.

Mill House forms part of a collection of buildings which is frequently referred to as Townsford Mill.

The application outlines plans to set up a six-bedroom hotel on the ground and first floor of Mill House.

Minor alterations are proposed for both the inside and outside of the building.

Each of the bedrooms will come with an ensuite, while there will also be manager’s accommodation on the second floor.

The planning statement reads: “It should be noted that prior to the building being used as offices, the building was used as a house of multiple occupancy (HMO).

“The proposed layout under this application has been based upon providing en-suite accommodation which are located in similar places to where shower and bathrooms previously existed as a HMO.

“The anticipation is that the established routes for service runs and drainage can be reused and therefore minimise the amount of disturbance to the existing fabric.”

The plans submitted to Braintree Council refer to the Mill House building only.

The mill building which runs over the River Colne will continue to be home to the Antiques Centre and Dickens restaurant.

However, the application states greater emphasis will be placed on running Dickens as a bar and the restaurant side of the business will be reduced.

The application also suggests the applicant sees potential to use the building as a wedding venue.

The Blacksmiths building, which is also part of Townsford Mill, has been earmarked to be used as a potential cafe area.

Smaller buildings, such as The Coach House and The Gatehouse, are not included in the plans.

It is understood the Gatehouse will soon be home to a community fridge scheme aimed at reducing food waste among residents in Halstead.