Warwick District Council (WDC) has officially moved out of its Riverside House headquarters, as plans to turn the building into homes move forward.

Locals have twice been consulted on plans to repurpose the Leamington Spa base into 150 homes, with the scheme being pushed by Homes England.

The project could also see Edmonscote Athletics track relocated as the local authority moves its services out of the building.

"Our Riverside House office has now permanently closed," a council statement said on Thursday (March 28).

"There will be no further access to the building, post box or car park.

"Our customer services will reopen on Tuesday 9 April and will be located in the Royal Pump Rooms."

The council is also moving some of its services to Warwick, using offices alongside Warwickshire County Council.

The current proposals to repurpose Riverside House would see 150 new net carbon zero homes built, 40 per cent of which will be affordable.

"Homes England are purchasing Riverside House to redevelop for new housing," the consultation website said.

"Alongside the redevelopment of Riverside House, the council also has an ongoing strategy to improve accessibility to greenspace and improve sports facilities.

"To help achieve this, the council are seeking to relocate Edmonscote Athletics track with a new facility.

"This presents an opportunity for the creation of improved park facilities across the existing athletics track and Elizabeth Park.

"Homes England want you to help shape proposals for new homes at Riverside House and the plans for improved facilities at Elizabeth Park."

A full planning application is expected to be submitted in the spring.

Homes England has already been told by the council it does not need to compile and Environmental Impact Assessment for the development.

WDC said the move from Riverside House could save taxpayers up to £250,000 per year.