CHANGES to a plan to convert a former city factory into apartments will have to go before councillors after concerns were raised about a "marginally offensive" sixth floor 'viewing platform' and lack of parking.

Work to convert the former Ice Works factory in Bromyard Road in Worcester was approved back in 2016 but changes to the two newer buildings surrounding the locally-significant building will see it shorten from five to three-storeys.

Cllr Richard Udall, who represents St John’s, called the application to the council’s planning application for discussion over its impact on residents in neighbouring homes in Broadway Grove, inadequate parking and traffic safety.

In his objection, Thomas Mason of Broadway Grove, said he some of the latest changes to the plan were an improvement and “under duress” supported the plan.

However, Mr Mason said changing the number of floors would make homes and gardens less overlooked, but the changes did not go far enough.

He said: “The plans detail a new stairwell to be constructed to the north of the main building.

“The plans do not detail specifically what material this stairwell is to be made from however the illustrations suggest this will be glass.

“This would, essentially form a glass, floor to ceiling sixth floor ‘viewing platform’ for the buildings residents to look out at properties to the north. The idea of this concerns me greatly and is something I find marginally offensive.”

Mr Mason also said he was greatly concerned as to whether enough parking would be provided as it was already a contentious issue in the area.

Another objector, Sarah Tongue of Bromyard Road, said: “My concern would be that extra cars on Bromyard Road as my driveway is concealed and traffic goes up the hill and around the corner at tremendous speed which puts residents at increased risk to accident."

The plan to build 54 apartments remains the same, with the planned one-bed apartment changing to a two-bed flat.

Planning permission was granted for the Ice Works building to be converted to 54 apartments in July 2016 after fears it could have been demolished.

Work to build two new buildings next to the former factory has already started as well as urgent repairs and support work inside the main building.

A total of 64 car parking spaces would be provided as part of the conversion.

Highways bosses at Worcestershire County Council raised no objection.

Worcester City Council's planning committee meets on Thursday (January 23).