A derelict former antique shop that has become a haven for pigeons could be turned into flats and a restaurant.

The four-storey Grade II-listed building is in Mount Ephraim in Tunbridge Wells.

Historically known as The Wishing Well, it was built around 1830 before receiving its listing on November 24, 1966.

The building has been left to fall into disrepair since its previous occupant, Amadeus Antiques, vacated in December 2021, and is now inhabited by pigeons and other “vermin”.

Bird droppings plaster the floors while mould can be seen growing up and down the walls.

The building itself is showing signs of major wear and tear, with flaking paint and wooden panels falling off.

But now the “eyesore” could gain a new lease of life as a planning application has been submitted by Mansur Ozkara for its conversion to commercial and residential use.

Under the plans, the first and second floors would become flats while the basement would be turned into a kitchen.

The ground floor space would then be used as a commercial area, either as a restaurant or cafe.

The space behind would be fenced off as a communal garden for tenants of the flats.

A heritage statement submitted with the plans said: “The existing building is currently derelict and in poor condition both externally and internally.

“The building has not been occupied for some time and was not adequately maintained.

“No recent works have been undertaken to maintain the structure for some time leading to the gradual decline of the building.

“Pigeons have entered the building and black mould and mildew have set in.”

It continues: “The proposal seeks to convert this currently derelict retail unit into two residential units and a commercial unit.

“The building is currently an eyesore... and attracts pigeons and vermin to the local area.

“Repairing and repurposing the building will improve the street scene greatly.”

Plans were originally granted permission in May 2022 but a new application was filed on October 2 after minor additions and alterations were made to the building and layout.

The purpose of the new application is to seek planning permission and listed building consent for the changes.

The developers will look to retain as much of the existing structure as possible but many parts such as roof tiles and wooden boards would be replaced.

Access to the upper floor flats would be via the left side of the building while the front door would become the entrance to the restaurant.

A third door currently boarded up would be repurposed and used as a main fire exit.

For more on the plans, click here.

Full details can be found by using the code 23/02651/LBC.