A pigeon-infested derelict public toilet is to be converted into a �135,000 starter home.

The two-storey Edwardian lavatory block is being turned into a split-level studio flat described as an ideal first home in south east London.

Developers have applied for planning permission to convert the 100-year-old building into a tiny apartment of less than five square metres.

It comes complete with an open-plan living room and kitchen, double bedroom and en suite bathroom.

Unusual property

It stands in the centre of Forest Hill where it has been disused and derelict for the past 10 years.

Developers have applied for planning permission to convert the 100-year-old building.

Will buyers be interested in a converted toilet?

Estate agent Tony Ravenscroft, of Acorns in Lewisham, said the flat's unusual history would be a selling point in an "up and coming area".

"I think someone will love it. It's definitely one of our more unusual properties," he said.

Ready by Christmas

The property was owned by Lewisham council but has been bought subject to planning permission by developers Hambridge Homes.

Colin Sharpe, of Architects Plus in Chislehurst, Kent, said: "All the external ornaments, like the signs, will go and obviously the toilets will be ripped out.

"The inside's rotten and will be gutted and we had to get an infestation of pigeons cleared out before we could even measure it."

Developers hope planning permission will be granted within the next six weeks and the property could be converted by Christmas or the New Year.