A landmark address in the Cotswolds' industrial history could soon have a new look if planners agree to switch traditional slate roofing for metal sheets – and add solar panels.

Famous in recent history as the head office for engineers RA Lister, the global engineering brand which was founded by Sir Robert Ashton Lister in 1867, the Grade II-listed Priory was originally built in 1520, but seen many alterations in subsequent centuries.

The Dursley site, which is found at the bottom of Long Street and which sits in a Conservation Area, is now the home to several firms including Futura Foods (which is seeking the change) Knowledge Change Action and Celeritas Solutions.

Building contractor Barry Walker and Co has asked Stroud District Council through Uley-based planning agents Elevation One for permission to replace the roof covering at the site, removing existing slate for metal, ribbed roof sheets with gutters, downpipes and eaves to match. Solar panels to both sides of the roof would then be added.

The bid, which is for a building to the rear of the main Priory, is accessed off Drake Lane and adjacent to the main parking facilities for the address, which neighbours Dursley Bowls Club.

Elevation One told planners: "The application property is located on the road out of Dursley at the bottom of Long St and onto Drake Lane and stands alone within the plot, therefore it is not visually read with the neighbouring buildings."

The agent added that the existing roof would be replaced with a ribbed metal sheet roof in "goosewing grey", with eaves and gutters to match.

They added: "This will allow the building to have a longer life cycle and reduce heating loss to the main building fabric."

Specification submitted for the project from Fit Solar promises 52.4 kWh of module power and 35.8 kWh of total battery storage using a Solis S6 Hybrid Inverter.

● Dursley Town Council has been asked for its views by November 13.