Neighbours have "vehemently" objected to plans to turn a set of offices in Twickenham into three new homes, saying the "dilapidated" building needs a lot of investment to stop it being an "eyesore".

Mandarin Grange Investments has applied for planning permission to convert 'Ash House Business Centre' on Second Cross Road into three homes.

Plans state two, two-bedroom and one, one-bedroom houses would be built.

The application also shows six cycle parking spaces and five car parking spaces would be provided.

"Each unit will exceed the Nationally Described Space Standards to ensure future occupiers enjoy a good standard of living," the plans explained. 

"No external changes are proposed."

However, the application has not found favour with local residents, with six objections now submitted to Richmond Council.

Emma Houghton wrote: "It is really disappointing to see that the developer has missed an opportunity to improve the look of the building and the road consisting of many existing Victorian built homes. 

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"The proposal looks similar to the existing commercial building with its dated and unattractive look. 

"In terms of developing Twickenham into a more desirable area to live, the proposed application is not in keeping with these aims and ideals going forward."

Meanwhile Selina Lok added: "I vehemently object to the current plans as they stand. 

"It is clear from the history of planning applications and from viewing the property everyday that there has been no major investment (since 1940's??) in the upkeep and appearance of these offices and that there are no proposals to consider its design and improvement to become a residential property and in keeping with the other houses. 

"Note, this building faces the other half of the road which falls within a conservation area. 

"The front façade is dilapidated with a mismatch of windows together, a substandard driveaway which is coming away and with the cheapest cosmetic work that has been done in recent years. 

"It is an eye sore to the surrounds and the street."

See the full application here.

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