OFFICE and storage space above a block of city centre shops could be converted into apartments.

95-99 Godwin Street is one of Bradford city centre’s many grand buildings, and its ground floor is home to businesses including a clothing store and beauty salon.

A planning application to turn the upper floors into 14 apartments has now been submitted to Bradford Council by Abdul Ghafoor.

The ground floor units would remain as retail, although a new entrance to the flats would be created.

The application says the upper floors have been vacant for several months, and they could be converted into flats through the “permitted development” route – without the requirement for planning permission.

The alterations to the ground floor to create the new entrance do, however, require planning approval.

Explaining why the upper floors are no longer needed for retail, the application says: “The retail sectors have been hit hard economically since post-Covid, the ongoing conflict at the Middle East and Red Sea and as a result of many people purchasing retail items conveniently online.

“The retail units will remain, as it provides an active frontage for now, but the upper floors will be converted to residential apartments.

“Our client will be keen to progress with building construction work as soon as possible.”

A decision on the application is expected next month.