Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has approved plans to convert part of a former industrial building in Portadown into three apartments.

The application came from McCreanor & Co. Architects of 85 Plantation Road on behalf of James Blane of Birch Grove, Gilford. It covers changes of use, alterations and renovations in the north-eastern section of the two-storey brick structure, which has a U-shaped footprint and sits on a raised concrete plinth.

Ballydugan Road borders the site to the south and provides rear access to the building, constructed in the early-to-mid 20th century.

Each apartment will feature two bedrooms, a kitchen/living area and a hall, with a communal stairwell serving the separate floors.

The scheme includes a new conservation roof light, two ground-floor windows, landscaping, car parking to the side and site works. No further external changes to the building are planned.

Council planning officers noted the proposal replaces a prior approval for a three-storey townhouse. They found the apartment layout suitable for the building's size and rural location, with parking screened from view and minimal external alterations.

The conversion aims to maintain the structure, protect its architectural features and enhance the rural setting through planting and enclosure of the site.