An application to convert a building in Falmouth’s town centre into a homeless shelter has been recommended for refusal by the town council.

Councillors felt that the planning application to convert 3 Bank Place into a homeless shelter run by St Petrocs lacked sufficient detail.

Last month the Packet spoke to one of the current residents of the building, Victor Garrat-Smith, 69, who was once homeless himself and found accommodation through St Petrocs 14 years ago.

He worries that he could be left without a home again if the building is converted.

Sally Barker, who lives next door to the building, spoke to councillors on behalf of some of the residents about their objections to the plan.

She spoke about the impact the project would have on the historical nature of the building and the fact that a heritage impact assessment had not been carried out, which is especially important as the site is a grade two listed building.

Sally also mentioned the potential impact on the current residents.

She said: “The human story is of course the current residents who would be left homeless and have to find accommodation elsewhere.”

Consultee Heritage England has also raised concerns about the plan.

It said in a statement: “We have concerns that the proposed subdivison works are harmful to the special interest of the grade two listed building.”

It went on to state that more information was required to make a decision.

Councillor for Smithick ward John Spargo said: “It seems illogical to me.

“Some of the people who have got themselves there are struggling at the thought of going anywhere else.”

Councillor for Penwerris ward Anna Gillett was more supportive of the application, however.

She said: “This site, this is going to be for people who are moving through the system.

“They have said they would be happy to sit down and talk about the future of the residents living there.”

The application will now be debated by Cornwall Council, which will have the final say in due course.