One of Newcastle city centre's most prominent buildings could be transformed into more than 100 new flats.
A developer is hoping to turn Cale Cross House, an 18-storey building next to the Tyne Bridge, from an office block into a new residential complex that would boast spectacular views over the River Tyne.
Planning documents reveal that the site, which is one of the city's tallest buildings, could be converted into 128 apartments.
A statement sent to Newcastle City Council on behalf of London-based M7 Real Estate said that the city centre site was "an ideal and suitable candidate" for a housing development.
It states: "The building was initially developed as an office complex in the 1970s and since this time has been subject to a number of planning applications in relation to its use as an office building, including various applications for telecommunications equipment and the building's recladding.
"Whilst the building has been used for office use since this time, it is our client's view that the building's city centre location makes it an ideal and suitable candidate for conversion to residential development in order to help the Council boost its supply of housing and to support a sustainable residential community in the city centre."
The developer adds that there would be "tangible benefits to the city centre" from the extra housing, and that future residents would be served by "excellent transport links and access to services and facilities".
According to planning documents, there are no external alterations proposed for the prominent building.
However, the interior office floorspace could be completely overhauled to create 36 studio apartments, 62 one-bedroom flats, 26 two-bed properties, and four penthouse apartments.
The building also has 74 underground car parking spaces which it shares with the neighbouring Tyne House, 51 of which would be used to serve residents.
Its existing pedestrian access via a footway off the Central Motorway would be retained, as would its main access from Akenside Hill.
It was revealed last month that a new toll could be imposed on vehicles using the Tyne Bridge in a bid to bring dangerous pollution levels on the congested route back within legal limits.
