AN historic church that has been at the heart of a community for more than 150 years is set to be transformed into flats.

The St Thomas Centre, in Southgate Street in Winchester, has been used as the city’s record office since 1974 and was formerly known as the church of St Thomas and St Clement.

Until recently it had been used as office space, with plans now seeing it redeveloped into nine flats, contributing approximately £115,000 to the city’s affordable housing scheme.

Councillor Therese Evans said: “This is a building that I think has lost its way and has not been successful as offices. I do support this changing of use. Concerns about parking will be something buyers will take into account.”

The plan was unanimously approved.