DINERS could feast among a century of memories of one of York's most famous shops if plans for Foss Bridge House get the go-ahead.

The owners of the former F R Stubbs hardware store in Fossway are applying for permission to convert it into a food retail area and flats.

Under plans due to go before the city's central planning committee, the shop's distinctive counters and other fixtures which date from the late 19th century will remain in place.

In his report to councillors, Roger Pierce, the council's development control caseworker, says the scheme will "exploit, conserve and provide continued public access to the historic, well-preserved interiors".

He is recommending that councillors approve the scheme at their meeting on July 1.

The shop fittings are part of the Grade II star listing for Foss Bridge House, built on the corner of Fossgate and Merchantgate in 1878 for linen drapers W W J Whitehead.

In 1915, it passed into the hands of the Stubbs family and became F R Stubbs ironmongers store.

In March this year, it was revealed that the family had sold it to a then mystery buyer.

Now the new owner, Trinity Services (UK) Ltd, has submitted a planning application converting the upper part into five flats. The company is also seeking permission to turn the lower part into a restaurant, pub or caf.

No final decision has been taken on which option to go for, but council planners are urging councillors to ban it from being turned into a take-away. "It does need a major operator," said the plans' architect, Ron Illingworth, a partner in Downes Illingworth, of Thirsk.

He confirmed that whoever operates the restaurant or caf will have a planning restriction preventing them from removing the counters or fixtures.

"It is a very difficult site bounded by the River Foss. It will give the builders an interesting challenge."

Land between Foss Bridge House and Piccadilly may be turned into flats and a shop with car parking on the lowest level, as Trinity Services is to put in plans to build between Foss Bridge House and Piccadilly. The details have yet to be finalised.

Updated: 10:20 Thursday, June 24, 2004