THE future of a row unique Hereford buildings has been made clearer after plans to turn them into 10 flats emerged.

The striking Georgian and Victorian buildings in Bridge Street have been used as offices, but it now looks like they could be once again turned into homes.

In a planning application submitted to Herefordshire Council, applicant Jay Rai wants to convert 32, 33, 34 and 35 Bridge Street into 10 flats.

A design and access statement submitted to the council said: "The aims of the proposal are to provide a viable residential solution with the minimum of alterations to the buildings.

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"To that end the main facade onto Bridge street will remain as existing, as will most other elevations. It is proposed to rebuild a first floor conservatory in exactly the position of one previously demolished.

"The timber framing of No 32 is continued on to the west elevation below the conservatory as a visual link.

"The roof of Flat No 2 is now in such a bad state with Turnerised slates and a collapsing structure that it is considered best to rebuild the roof retaining the same pitch eaves.

"Internally the works are mostly to provide adequate fire resistance to floors and doors to stairs in protected shafts.

"All details such as skirtings, architraves, panelled doors and plaster mouldings are to be retained or replicated where needed to retain character."

The four buildings, which are linked, have pedestrian access from the pavement, and part of the car park is owned by Mr Rai.

Comments on application 204045 should be made by February 4, Herefordshire Council said.

Planners have set March 19 as a target date for a decision.

The buildings have previously been used as a offices for Welsh Water, Hereford City Council and accountants.

A plaque above the door offers one nugget of information – this was once the John Gwynne James Memorial Home for Nurses.

Hereford Times reader Pauline Jones said: "The John Gwynne Nursing Home was used by the midwives who lived there.

"They looked after and delivered babies born at home.

"My son was born in 1956 and was delivered by one of those marvellous midwives at home, as was my niece four years later."