NEW apartments are planned for above a historic shop in Ludlow.

Steven and Amanda Dalsan have applied for planning permission to add apartments above the Rickards and Son shop in the Bull Ring, Ludlow.

The planning, design and access statement submitted to Shropshire Council has been prepared by Carter Jonas.

It says: "Rickards and Son Limited have operated for over 150 years. It is believed that the interiors have been refurbished in 1871 when Heber Rickards moved in with his family and formally utilised the upstairs as accommodation. This was the norm in Victorian commercial life.

"The site lies within the conservation area of Ludlow.

"This proposal seeks to restore residential accommodation on the upper floors by providing two apartments on the first and second floor. Access to the apartments is achieved through the existing side door allowing direct access to the staircase.

"The ground floor will continue to operate for retail.

"The vision for the applicant is to utilise number six and seven the Bull Ring as a mixed space which will incorporate retail, spaces for local artisan crafters to utilise, sale of drink and food from local suppliers, spaces to hire for meetings and small events and the display of historic artifacts."

The property is Grade II listed and described by Historic England as a three-storey shop from the mid 19th century.

Historic England was consulted during the application process for this plan, but has said it will not offer advice on this occasion.

The interior of the shop at Rickards and Son, a historic ironmongers, is known for its original shop fittings. These include over 100 original hand-made timber drawers, a pay point and an ammunition box.

The shop, which maintains many of its traditional features, is set in the heart of the town’s main shopping area and close to the castle, making it an appealing spot for businesses.

It includes a separate building, the Courtyard, accessed via the shop or through a side passage leading onto Corve Street.