AN OFFICE block that has been empty for 16 years could finally be due a makeover.

A planning application has been lodged for the change of use of Falcon House from offices to 90 one-bedroom flats. Lower floors of Falcon House are occupied by the town centre Debenhams store and the building towers over Fleming Way.

Council chiefs describe the building as a significant example of Brutalist architecture, but it is time that has brutalised the concrete building. Many of its upper-floor windows have been smashed and graffiti sprayed across the glass.

Now, Swindon Borough Council and the building’s owner Standard Life Investments are in the final stages of signing a 47-year-lease on Falcon House.

Standard Life will fund half of the costs to refurbish the top six storeys of the building into 90 flats. The council will collect all the rental income from the flats.

A prior notification application has been submitted to the borough’s planning department by agents Kenn Scaddan Associates for the change of use from offices to flats. Architects have said each flat will be given a single car parking space. 90 cycle parking spaces are also planned.

A separate planning application, which has not yet been submitted, will seek approval for changes to the building’s façade.

South Swindon Parish Council’s planning committee last week raised no objections to the plans.

The parish clerk joked: “At least they have thought about parking.” Parish chairman Chris Watts replied: “It can be done.”