An old HSBC building on Hamilton’s Front Street is in line for a transformation into shops and offices.

The six-floor Albuoy’s Point building will also get underground parking if a planning application is approved.

The application from MND Properties proposed a new façade for the former bank, still used as HSBC office space.

The planning application said a revamp of the almost 50-year-old office block would “energise an underused area” of the city.

The document added: “The proposed design uses the existing framework of the building while improving upon and enhancing the site and cityscape.”

The developers said they hoped to begin strip-out work in November and construction in April 2019 with a completion date of December 2020 if planning officials back the proposal.

The application said: “The building as designed was conceived in the early 1960s and completed in 1969. The building has commanded a focal point on the city skyline for the last 50 years.

“The existing building structure is in sound structural condition and will be kept. The existing façade will be stripped back to the base structure. The building envelope will receive a new upgraded façade.

“The building’s current mechanical and electrical services are beyond repair and will be removed and replaced with upgraded services in keeping with a class-A office building.”

The existing double-height lobby would be turned into a multi-use retail area and the main entrance would be lowered to street level.

The top five floors of the building would be turned into office space for rent and an underground car park would be created.

The new façade would include new display windows on the corner nearest the ferry terminal and new public art would be installed as part of the project.

The application said energy efficiency was a priority in the design and the use of renewable energy in the new-look building has been discussed.

The developers said: “Wind turbines are being considered, but need to be discussed further with the Department of Energy.”