Plans to convert a former bed and mattress store in a listed building have been given the green light.

Developers are set to change The Original Bed Co. building, in The Broadway, Amersham, into a three-bedroom house with en-suite and shared bathrooms, a new kitchen and a replacement extension at the rear.

They said while the two buildings on either side of the property are in use – a house and a betting shop – this building has been vacant for around two years and is not in use.

The front of the property will stay the same. The rear elevation will see changes in the form of the demolition of two single-storey extensions, with developers saying: “Neither extension is of any age and offers limited or no usable space”.

They also said the proposed extension is of a “modest scale and simple appearance that does not compete with or detract from the importance of the host building”.

The online planning statement also says that despite estate agents’ extensive marketing campaign, including mail shots, the use of industry websites and social media, it has not been possible to “identify new retailers”.

Reasons cited include the building’s location, which is said to be “away from the main retail trade in the town centre”, the “lack” of modern service space and narrow staircases making it difficult to store, manoeuvre and display items, and the fact that the building is Grade II-listed.

Developers added: “Typically, a retail unit will generate far greater activity compared to a three-bedroom dwelling house.

“It will also mean less demand on available parking space.”

The planning statement also said: “The fact that the application sire has been vacant for in excess of two years since the applicant’s business left the premises, and despite excessive and robust marketing, a new retailer or any other commercial operator has not been secured, it is suggested this demonstrates beyond reproach that the existing use cannot be continued.”

It added: “The change of use will introduce a new use that is the restoration of the building’s original purpose, and it will help to ensure the long-term care and maintenance of the listed building and Conservation Area.”