Eight apartments are set to be created in the floors above one of York’s most prominent stores.
Plans are in to create the flats from what are described as the “currently vacant and partially derelict” rooms.
These are found in the three floors above Oliver Bonas, the retailer recently moved into 1 King’s Square.
It was home to Boots for many years before that.
Now building owners, K Square 2 LLP, have submitted a planning application for the new work, which does not affect Oliver Bonas.
The building is Grade II listed and was originally constructed as a house and ground floor shop in the early 19th century.
It was extended in the mid-19th century, with a new shopfront added in the 20th century.
“The architectural elements, including architraves, skirting boards, and cornicing, are generally preserved, showcasing the building’s rich heritage,” says the application.
Under the plans, there would be five one-bed apartments and three two-bed apartments.
And part of the basement would be used to provide cycle parking and a bin store.
Access to the upper floors and basement would be via the existing dedicated entrance on Goodramgate, away from the shop. A new doorway is part of the plans.
“External works are proposed to be minimal, particularly on front and side elevations effecting the street scene. The majority of external works are proposed to the rear elevation,” planning documents state.
The plans aslo seeks to turn the flat roof space into a “terrace and private amenity for the relevant flats with localised structural and roof covering works”.
The application concludes: “It is our view that the proposal represents a sensitive and high-quality conversion which will secure the long-term future of the upper floors of this heritage asset.
“The proposal would bring the currently vacant and partially derelict upper floors back into active residential use which is a substantial positive in heritage terms.”
You can read and comment on the planning application here.
