The couple want to transform the loo into a flat

Builder Henry Cubby and his wife Ann plan to transform the former city centre toilet in Cripley Road, Oxford, into living quarters for students.

Mr Cubby, 50, of Abingdon, said the couple put in a bid for 500-square-feet premises after it was advertised in a local newspaper.

The decision on planning permission is not expected for several weeks.

Mr Cubby said: "By the time we've landscaped it, you won't be able to tell it was a public loo.

"The ladies is going to be a nice-sized bedroom and there will be a kitchen/living area where the gents used to be."

Robert Harrison, from estate agents Cluttons, claimed the property could fetch up to �135,000 if the couple sold it.

He said: "It may put some people off but if it was completely transformed, I think its past might be forgotten."