A store that has been empty for at least seven years could soon become a swish glazed coffee shop.
Plans are in to transform 14 Coppergate, which has been vacant ever since stationer Ryman moved out.
The proposal is to create a new glazed front for a light and airy café, with offices above.
Owners the La Salle UK Ventures property company want permission to make the changes to the ground floor shop front and add a dormer window to let in more light to the third floor.
The changes “would not only enhance the appearance of the building and ensure that the character and appearance of this part of the Conservation Area is not harmed along with the setting of Listed Buildings, but ultimately guarantee its long term future,” planning documents say.
“The building has been empty for some time and despite its prominent location within the city centre, the continued absence of occupation and regular maintenance could have widespread negative impacts.”
The shop front would be the biggest change.
“In order to make the upper floors attractive, for tenants of the existing office space, a separate pedestrian entrance from the front would be created which would lead to a newly created corridor and access to the upper floors.”
The four storey building is not listed but is next to the Three Tuns pub which dates back to the 16th century.
If given planning permission, it would continue the revival of Coppergate. Another long-empty shop, on the other side of the Three Tuns, has become a sofa.com shop.
And a branch of the Lucy Pittaway Gallery selling art and gifts, has opened in the old Oasis shop opposite.
You can read and comment on the plans here.
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