PLANS to turn part of a Wirral office building into residential accommodation for vulnerable young people have been approved.

The upper floors of Europa House in Birkenhead will now be converted into 24 one-bedroom units over three floors and communal amenities for residents. 

As part of the scheme, office space on the ground floor will be retained and 'the character of the existing structure maintained'.

The project is led by The Johnson Foundation - a Merseyside-based charity helping vulnerable young people build independent lives - and designed by Falconer Chester Hall Architects.

A spokesperson for The Johnson Foundation said the redevelopment at Europa House 'aligns with the charity’s mission, providing these young people with high-quality housing integrated with local services and amenities.

Martin Haymes, associate director at Falconer Chester Hall said: "The transformation of Europa House will provide much-needed housing and support the area’s broader regeneration."

Darren Muir, director of planning at development consultancy Pegasus Group, said: “the site forms part of the Birkenhead Commercial Mixed Use Quarter allocation within the wider Central Birkenhead Regeneration Area in the emerging Wirral Local Plan.

"The re-use of existing buildings is encouraged as a sustainable alternative to demolition and new construction, whilst the consented use as accommodation for young people leaving foster care will contribute to the need for specialist housing in the borough.”

Kate Eugeni, chair of The Johnson Foundation, added "We are delighted that we are one step closer to realising this ground-breaking project which will have a profound impact on the Wirral community.

"Falconer Chester Hall architects have designed a residence that will provide a secure environment where young people leaving care can develop independence and confidence."