A HOUSING association has revealed plans to transform its offices in a town centre into a block of affordable flats.

Swan Housing Association has launched an application to Basildon Council planning bosses in the hope to turn its Billericay base in High Street into 17 flats.

If the plans are approved, Pilgrim House, where Swan has operated from the mid-nineties,will be overhauled into ten one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom flats.

It is unknown where the company intends to move.

The Echo has contacted Swan for comment.

The application, drawn up by Elizabeth Thorogood, from Bidwells agency in Chelmsford, says: “The development will consist of the change of use of the building from office to residential use comprising approximately 17 flats.

“The transport assessment concludes that the change of use will reduce vehicle movements, thus providing an overall benefit to the highways network.

“There are therefore no sound reasons or reasonable reasons why the proposed development should be rejected in highways terms.”

It goes on that a total of 19 car parking spaces, and bicycle spaces will also be provided.

Swan Housing Swan Housing Association was first formed in 1994.

Today, it operates throughout Essex and East London managing more than 11,000 homes. it plans to deliver more than 1,000 new homes as part of an ambitious three year strategy.