A former cold storage unit could be converted into recording studios for musicians under plans submitted to East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Jason Cade has applied to planners to change the use of the 107 Stretham Road, in Wilburton, formerly home to an engineering company, into a five-room recording and rehearsal studio.

The site would also be used for the storage and distribution of events and music equipment.

Agents acting for Mr Cade told the council: “The re-use of the building will generate jobs, diversify the range of skilled and unskilled jobs available in the district and help develop the up and coming talent within the music and sound engineering industry.

“In addition the proposed recording and rehearsal facilities will provide a valuable resource to the local music scene, fostering talent and providing a controlled environment where local bands can practice and record their music developing the local music culture.”

James Rawlinson, who carried out a noise assessment at the site, found that additional sound-proofing work would be required to ensure there was no disturbance for neighbours.

In his report, he said: “The current inner cold store building structure with 340 mm double ply brick walls and heavy wooden doors already significantly reduces noise breakout.

“However, from the assessments undertaken to date, both on the building and with consideration to the proposed usage, it is clear that additional acoustic insulation works are required to further reduce noise breakout.

“It is anticipated that once in place, all noise breakout relating to on site activities will be reduced to such a degree that noise complaints would be considered unlikely for anytime of the day.”

Mr Rawlinson recommended door sealing, soundproofing, floor and ceiling treatments to help minimise noise levels.

The applicant is looking to operate the rehearsal rooms from 10am until 11pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 10pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

If approved, the plans could create two full-time jobs and 14 part-time jobs.

A decision on the plans is expected within the next eight weeks. To view the plans, or to have a say, visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk