The 15-storey Guild Tower sits alongside Preston Guild Hall – both buildings are now owned by The Rigby Organisation.

The £10million project will see the top four floors of Guild Tower converted into serviced apartments with viewing balconies overlooking the city.

The plan also envisages an entertainment and cinema room as well as a 10,000 sq-ft casino on the first floor and a 5,000 sq-ft spa and leisure area.

There will be a new entrance direct from the aparthotel into Preston Guild Hall.

The exterior of the 1970’s building will also be upgraded with a new   “weave” effect façade referencing Preston’s industrial heritage in the cotton industry.

On completion Guild Tower will be rebranded: Villa Urban.

The plans are part of an ambitious regeneration scheme to transform this part of Preston city centre.

Earlier this month Preston City Council granted planning permission for a major transformation of the Guild Hall itself converting the basement and ground floor of the venue into a 10-pin bowling alley, nine-hole crazy golf course, karaoke booths, a sports bar and dining room.