PLANS have been submitted to convert a Grade II listed building in Ulverston into what has been described as a "stunning" housing development.

Modlar Homes has revealed plans to convert Ford House in Ford Park into a group of properties made up of four two-bedroom flats and one separate house.

The work will include new windows, alterations to the roof, an extension, work to the boundary wall and landscaping and the creation of a car park for 12 vehicles.

The development will feature a glassed balcony, a communal for residents of the flats and a private garden for the house.

Ali Algar, chief executive of the Ford Park Community Group, said the plans will cause a lot of debate but described the development as "stunning".

"Both myself and the trustees have seen the plans and I personally like it, it's a lovely mix of traditional and contemporary," she said.

"The big glass window will make the most of the park and the surroundings. It will cause discussion but I really love it; it's stunning."

In a heritage statement submitted with the planning application to South Lakeland District Council, Modlar Homes said: "It is considered that the works proposed to convert and modernise the building are significant, however, in providing a viable long term future use of a primarily vacant building the impact is deemed positive.

"Every effort has been made to ensure that the works proposed sit comfortably with the character of the existing building, are subservient in scale and will enhance its existing appearance."

In addition to the Ford House conversion, Modlar Homes has partnered with Lancet Homes to build The Beeches at Ford Park - an "exclusive" development of eight large detatched houses with prices ranging from £375,000 to £540,000.

Modlar Homes is also behind a number of other housing projects in South Cumbria, including the 64 new-builds at St James' Gardens in Holker Street in Barrow and 14 two- and three-bedroom properties at Mill Farm at Newby Bridge.

A decision on the Ford House development is set to be made by April 28.