A prominent historic property in the centre of Wetherby is to be transformed into retail accommodation under proposals aimed at securing its future preservation.
Schemes have been submitted for the renovation and subdivision of the premises at 21 Market Place into six separate commercial units.
Leeds City Council has granted planning consent for modifications to the structure, which holds Grade II-listed status and sits within the Wetherby Conservation Area.
A heritage assessment prepared by Ormerod Sutton Architects stated that the scheme encompassed the installation of new doorways and windows alongside photovoltaic panels.
The premises had formerly operated as both retail and office accommodation but currently stands unoccupied.
The assessment indicated that establishing a suitable and sustainable commercial function for the structure was vital to ensuring its long-term survival.
The ongoing utilisation of the property for commercial activities, achieved through division into six self-contained sections, would return this neglected building to productive use.
Municipal planning officers concluded that the scheme had been designed appropriately for its context.
An officer’s report noted that number 21 Market Place comprised a three-storey Georgian residence dating from the early 1800s, built using ashlar magnesian limestone beneath a Welsh slate covering and featuring characteristic sliding sash windows.
The premises had most recently operated as ground-floor retail with office accommodation above, though it had remained empty for several years.
Earlier modifications to the structure incorporated a pair of two-storey extensions at the rear of the site.
The council assessment stated that the scheme represented a suitable form of development within Wetherby’s central area and would assist in reoccupying and maintaining the viable operation of a prominent vacant commercial premises.
The proposal had been carefully conceived to maintain the significance of the listed structure while enabling a comprehensive programme of repair and restoration works.
Wetherby Town Council raised no objections to the scheme, provided that the building’s historic characteristics were preserved, according to the report.