A BISHOP Auckland restaurant which closed after two arson attacks in 2005 could be turned into homes.

Owners of the Fortune Court, in the Market Place, have applied for planning permission to convert the ground floor of the building into two flats and build two more apartments at the back.

The Cantonese-style restaurant was targeted by arsonists twice in a fortnight in October 2005.

A Bishop Auckland resident, who asked not to be named, said: "The place is an eyesore. It is about time it was tidied up."

The planning application was one of a number submitted to Wear Valley District Council earlier this month.

Members of the public have until June 1 to comment.