AN historic York warehouse could be converted into office, retail and residential accommodation, if city planners back a developer's scheme next month.

S Harrison developers, of York, today unveiled its plan to convert the Wards building, off Walmgate, next door to The Press offices, for nearly £2 million.

Wards was built in the late 19th century as a potato and grain warehouse. Goods were brought in using the nearby canal cut in the Foss.

The office/retail element of the scheme should generate about 15 jobs. There will also be a mixture of four studio flats, plus eight apartments with one, two and three bedrooms.

These will start at £120,000 and will retain many of the original features of the building - exposing its cast-iron columns, hoist gear, timber flooring and feature brickwork.

Harrison, which has agreed purchase of the site on planning approval, is already providing purpose-built accommodation for 272 students in partnership with York St John University in nearby Navigation Road.

Chris Hale, designer manager of Harrisons, said: "The redevelopment brings the upper floors of the buildings back into productive use and provides much-needed residential accommodation in a sustainable location within the city walls."

S Harrison Group, which sold its construction arm to building company Rok plc earlier this year, has recently moved to the Chocolate Works - the former Terry's factory site in York, from its former head office in Malton.

The company has been responsible for major development projects in the city, including the provision of social housing at Tedder Road and Water Lane and the redevelopment of Merchant Exchange on Queen's Staith in the centre of York.

City of York Council's planning committee is set to consider the proposals on December 20.