Plans for a new shop and flats in the most heavily protected areas of Newbury looks set to get the green light, despite a string of objections from heritage watchdogs - newbury.net can reveal.

Thomas & Co wants to replace the former Maxx Design offices in Town Mills, into a shop and 13 flats. And district planners have agreed, as long as the developer puts more than £60,000 into council coffers for improvements.

Despite protestations from The Newbury Society, Newbury Town Council, and the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, West Berkshire Council’s conservationist says the loss of the period building is “not considered detrimental”, and that the new building “will positively contribute” to the town’s historic centre.

It’s now up to councillors on the planning committee to decide whether to agree with officers, and take the £60,000 contribution. This would go towards improvements of Newbury’s parking situation, extra CCTV, and improving local parks.