Council planners have said an application to replace a series of windows at a local block of flats should be refused, as the new designs are not in keeping with the local conservation area.

Martinique Square (Warwick) Ltd has submitted a second application to upgrade the windows at the Bowling Green Street premises, wanting to replace the existing wooden frames and balcony doors with uPVC.

The application says the new designs for Martinique Square would be more energy efficient and would not spoil the look of the building.

But a report set to go before Warwick District Council's planning committee next week said the scheme should be thrown out.

"The proposals would result in unacceptable harm to the conservation area and the setting of a [neighbouring] listed building," the report said.

It added: "The introduction of increasingly energy efficient windows would generate a public benefit in terms of sustainability. 

"However, in this case the same public benefit can be achieved by timber-framed windows. Consequently there is no public benefit derived from using uPVC frames. 

"Double glazed timber units would offer the same energy efficiency, and timber is a sustainable material that can be repaired, unlike uPVC which requires complete replacement."

However, the application has been supported by 32 members of the public, and Warwick Town Council which says the benefits outweigh any potential harm to the property.

In its application, Martinique Square Ltd said: "There is a sincere need for thermal, health & safety and acoustic improvement to the glazing frames and units which has been long awaited by the residents of Martinique Square.

"The application seeks approval for a high-quality replacement uPVC window that delivers an identical appearance at street level, consistent with the aesthetic of the wider conservation area.

"The proposal delivers a significant reduction in carbon footprint and energy consumption for the life-span of the windows.

"The opportunity has arisen as the windows are at a level of significant repair despite the ongoing maintenance.

"The new windows will provide low-cost maintenance and access."

See the full application here.