Cafe bar plan for historic city centre building in Leeds
Bar firm Residence applied for planning permission for alterations to a vacant ground floor shop unit in Wray’s Buildings, near the Corn Exchange.
Part of a historic city centre building looks set to become a bar and cafe after plans were agreed with the council.
Bar firm Residence applied for planning permission for alterations to a vacant ground floor shop unit in Wray’s Buildings, near the Corn Exchange.
Re-painting, replacement awnings and the installation of air conditioning units were proposed for the Grade II-listed site, built around 1900.
A heritage report submitted to Leeds City Council said: “Wray’s Buildings is a prominent Grade II-listed building of architectural and historic significance within Leeds city centre.”
The building, on the corner of Sidney Street and Harewood Street, has seen a variety of commercial uses over the years and took its name from Robert Wray, who ran a confectionery business.
The report by Identity Interior Design said: “The proposals have been carefully designed to respect the character of the building and preserve its special interest.”
Planning permission was previously granted for the conversion of upper floors in the building into flats.
Current proposals would see the existing shop front re-painted in British Racing Green.
A council planning officer’s report said Wray’s was part of the City Centre Conservation Area and surrounded by other listed buildings.
It said: “These alterations are modest and sympathetic in design, would preserve the character and appearance of the listed building and would not appear incongruous or overly dominant within the wider street scene.
“It is considered that the proposal will preserve the special character and historic interest of the listed building.”