TAVISTOCK could soon benefit from a forward thinking project to convert vacant town centre flats into much needed accommodation for key workers.

Under a proposed partnership between West Devon Homes and the town council, two unused flats above shops in Duke Street would be converted into four two-bedroom flats for occupation.

The properties, above numbers 9 and 13 Duke Street, would be specifically geared towards key workers finding it difficult to buy into the housing market, but not classed as being in need of affordable housing.

Stuart Davies, chief executive of West Devon Homes, said: ?This is, in some respects, a first for us. We were looking at the potential to work beyond our normal remit, which is affordable housing.

?Here is an opportunity to create reasonable living quality in the middle of town.

?The accommodation would be suitable for teachers perhaps, or other people who may find it hard to get on the property ladder, but do not qualify for affordable housing.

?We have seen the potential to help fill a gap in terms of housing for people who are needed in the community, and I think it?s important not to let that potential slip through the net.?

Tavistock town clerk Roger Howard said conversion of the flats would be good for the town.

?We would be getting eight bedrooms? worth of good quality accommodation in the middle of town, which has just been standing empty,? he said.

?The buildings are Victorian, so a lot of work is going to be required to convert and bring the flats up to a modern standard of living.?

Terms for the partnership are being negotiated between the two parties and an offer from West Devon Homes was put to councillors at a meeting of the properties committee on Tuesday.

In their proposal, West Devon Homes have offered the council £10,000 for a 20-year lease on the flats. They would cover the conversion costs and take responsibility for the construction work and all subsequent internal repairs, while the council retains responsibility for external repairs.

The company would let the properties on assured shorthold tenancies at market rents, and would have discretion over lettings.

Responding to the proposal, at Tuesday?s meeting, some councillors were worried that £10,000 was not enough for a 20-year lease.

But Col Howard said: ?I think it?s a jolly good offer and I encourage you to accept it. These properties are a complete waste of space in the town at the moment.?

A decision on the proposal was deferred pending legal advice from the council?s property expert.