A FIVE-storey block of 11 apartments is to replace a historic lodge in Prestwich.

Planners have given the go-ahead for the new properties to be built on the site of Heaton Lodge, at an entrance to Heaton Park off Bury Old Road.

The lodge was a former residential property, which is now vacant and partially demolished. The neglected buildings, situated next to Prestwich Prep School, had been presented to the people of Prestwich by the Earl of Wilton.

The design of the apartments will be contemporary with a flat roof, which steps down from five storeys at the front and three storeys at the rear.

The developers were granted planning permission in April last year, but had to resubmit the application when the floor levels were amended in the plans.

The new plan incorporates a fifth floor, after the ground floor was changed into a car park.

The future of the buildings came under the spotlight in 1999 after they became a hideaway for drug users.

The application was passed by Bury Council's planning committee at Tuesday's (July 27) meeting.

A block of eight apartments has also been given the green light by planners.

A pair of semi-detached houses on Bury Old Road, near to its junction with Guest Road, will be partially converted and demolished to create the new flats.

A further plan for 12 apartments on Clarks Hill in Prestwich has also been passed. The site was previously occupied by a vacant detached bungalow.