A scheme to convert part of a famous steam engine works in Thetford into residential use is set to get the go-ahead next week.The owner of the derelict Former Burrell House, in Minstergate, which was an engineering workshop for Charles Burrell and Sons, wants to turn the listed building into six apartments and four townhouses.

A scheme to convert part of a famous steam engine works in Thetford into residential use is set to get the go-ahead next week.

The owner of the derelict Former Burrell House, in Minstergate, which was an engineering workshop for Charles Burrell and Sons, wants to turn the listed building into six apartments and four townhouses.

Breckland Council planners are recommending members to approve the Henstead Hall Estate proposals and grant listed building consent, which will help to take it off the county's historic buildings at risk register.

The site, opposite the Charles Burrell Museum, has been empty for years and subjected to vandalism and arson attacks. Plans to turn it into housing have received no objections.

If approved on Monday, the residential scheme would be carried out using “green credentials” to help lower energy and water bills and would come with nine car parking spaces.

A report to councillors says that the development would represent a “significant opportunity” to improve the appearance of the building and enhance the conservation area.