PLANS to build three new floors above a historic city restaurant include hotel rooms and apartments.

The owners of Poppins restaurant at 18 The Foregate, in Worcester, have submitted plans to Worcester City Council to demolish the vacant floor above its premises and build three new floors offering nine hotel rooms and three one-bedroom apartments for short and long-term let.

Kaan Can, who co-owns the restaurant alongside his father, Senol Can, said: "We were offered the chance to purchase the freehold of the whole building last year, and I think a lack of accommodation is a problem felt nationally.

"Rather than thinking about profits, this is an emotional space for me - this building - so I thought 'how can I maximise it and fulfil the needs of the city?'."

After a career as a teacher and in retail, Mr Can joined his father, Senol, at Poppins in 2018.

The restaurant, which originally opened in 1979, has been part of the family since 2002.

Nick Carroll Architects submitted the plans to Worcester City Council this month and an artist impression shows how 18 The Foregate could look if approved. (Image: Nick Carroll Architects)

Mr Can said: "I wanted to ensure the long-term success of the business and the building, rather than focusing on short-term gain.

"The upper floors of retail units are often left vacant now and, because of the ability to work remotely, they are not in demand by businesses.

"I spoke to estate agents in Worcester city centre and they outlined that demand for accommodation is greater than supply - so I want to meet the city's needs."

Worcester firm Nick Carroll Architects put forward the plans on Monday, October 14 and the application's consultation period will run until Wednesday, November 20.

Speaking on the plans earlier this month, John Brennan of Nick Carroll Architects said: "It will contribute to the vitality of the High Street and effectively provide use of the limited space we have in the city centre.    

"The site will be rebuilt from the first floor up, reinforcing the character of the city centre conservation area."

"This will be the third time that the site has been redeveloped in its history and we hope that this proposal will have a lasting and positive legacy to the city of Worcester."