EIGHT new apartments could be erected in the heart of Hale – right next door to the recently-opened M&S store.

Britannia Hotels has submitted an application to build a five storey extension on Century House, The Ashley Hotel, in Ashley Road.

The building would be constructed on a car park currently used by Britannia hotel staff, which backs on to Cecil Road.

The proposal is to build a new retail unit on the ground floor, with access from Ashley Road, and eight two-bed apartments over the remaining four floors.

Developers said that the design would be more in keeping with the village and would “soften the somewhat harsh elevation of the 1970s development at Century House”.

Unlike the existing brown common brickwork, developers would use “aged red brick to match surrounding buildings”.

A planning statement, put together by Prestwich Design Group, stated: “The proposed extension seeks to provide a building that is more in keeping with the surrounding architectural heritage than the standalone 1970s development of the Ashley Hotel and Century House.

“The addition of the proposed extension will provide an elevation more in keeping with the existing setting and provide a positive addition to the streetscape, setting and significance of Hale Village and the adjoining conservation area.

“By utilising a design style and materials in keeping with the surrounding area, it is intended that the proposed building will provide a positive impact on the setting and significance of Hale Village and the adjoining Conservation area.”

The land adjacent to Century House is currently used as parking for three to four vehicles of staff at Britannia Hotel but developers said all affected staff confirmed they could easily make alternate arrangements for parking or transportation to work.

The planning statement stated: “The land, whilst not entirely vacant, could be better used to enhance and provide sustainable and sensitive growth to Hale Village and it is this belief that lies at the very heart of our proposal.”

And the newly-opened Marks & Spencer’s could benefit from the new plans.

The statement reads: “The addition of a Marks & Spencer’s food outlet as a long term tenant to Century House and their proposed elevational upgrades will provide a positive impact to the area and the proposed building in this planning application. It is proposed that Marks and Spencer’s will be given right of first refusal to the proposed retail space on the ground floor as it would make an ideal cafeteria or restaurant to complement their new food outlet.”

Parking would be available at the council-owned car park Cecil Road East. Developers are seeking to secure permanent permits for residents - one car parking space for each of the eight apartments within this car park.