A PUB that closed its doors seven years ago could finally be turned into flats.

The Arboretum Inn in Northfield Street has laid empty since 2010.

Previously, in 2013 developer Unique Housing was granted permission for a change of use to convert the former drinking venue into five self-contained apartments.

But as no work was carried out within a three-year time span put in place by the city council, the developer now has to reapply.

At the time the decision prompted concerns, with some Northfield Street residents believing the new homes could exacerbate an existing parking issue.

On the new application, both a council economic development officer and a planning policy officer said as similar application had previously been grant they had no objections.

The economic officer added: "Consideration should be given to relevant the South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP) policies and amenities of adjoining sites."

A city archaeological officer said the scheme has no archaeological implications.

Kerry Poole, of operational and parks services, said they were looking to allocate a black and green bin for the properties.

She said: "Please ensure the bin store is large enough to accommodate these bins for the flats. The bin store must be no more than 25 meters from the highway for bin collection day."

In 2012, a scheme to create a nine-bedroomed, multi-occupancy house on the site was rejected by Worcester City Council planners, who said the closure of the pub building would represent the loss of a valued community facility.

The pub ceased trading in 2010 when owner Admiral Taverns attempted to find new tenants or sell the business before it was finally sold to developers.