AN ICONIC former bank which has permission to be converted into seven apartments will go under the hammer next week after spending several months unoccupied.

The Grade II listed site on the corner of Skinnergate and Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, is remembered for housing Lloyds Bank, until recent years.

However, would-be property developers are being encouraged to join an upcoming auction for the lot, which has been granted planning permission to become one and two-bedroomed flats.

Richard Reed, head of property for John Pye online auction house, said: “Located on the corner of Skinnergate and Coniscliffe Road, this property is an iconic historic building in the centre of Darlington.

“Planning consent has been granted to convert the first and second floors of the grand Grade II listed building, which has a guide price of £250,000.

“Darlington is rapidly becoming an up-and-coming area, attracting young professionals keen to service the likes of large employers such as Argos, EE and Amec who all have head offices in the area.”

If built, apartments in the property are expected to reach up to a £130,000 letting price – producing an estimated development value of £800,000.

For more information on the online auction on Wednesday, August 3, visit johnpye.co.uk/property-auctions, or to bid by phone, call 0115-970-6060