A former landmark for keeping offenders on the straight and narrow, Stroud's old Probation Office may be set to become an impressive private residence - if planners agree to the conversion.

The Firs, on Cainscross Road, is a four-storey Grade II-listed building which was used as part of Gloucestershire's probation services but sold off in August 2023 after permission had been given six years previously for conversion into flats.

Bruton Knowles, as agents, marketed the address by auction and the building, which dates back to the 1700s, was sold as a "substantial Grade II Listed period property" constructed of Ashlar Cotswold stone elevations.

Offered with planning permission for a conversion of the existing floor area into seven apartments with parking and grounds, it was also suggested that the bulding had scope for conversion back into a single dwelling house. 

That idea now appears to have been taken up: in a fresh bid before planners, owner and Standish resident Clare Lait is requesting that the building become a family home.

Ms Lait told planners: "The site has been vacant for eight years but previously used as probation offices. Planning has been granted for conversion for seven apartments, but I would like to change the use back to the original use as a single residential dwelling.

As part of the bid, the current provision of car parking for 12 vehicles would be reduced to six, so as to allow new garden space.

● Anyone on probation currently has to go to Gloucesterhire Probation Office in Bruton Way, Gloucester, if serving out the terms of a court sentence.