TWO highly regarded London chefs have revealed their plans for opening a restaurant and wine bar in former Barclays bank on the Herefordshire border.

James and Emma Faulks, who have worked in the capital for the last 20 years, including at their own restaurant for the last 10, recently moved to the Hay-on-Wye area with their young family.

A planning application submitted to the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority revealed the pair want to turn the old Barclays bank in Hay-on-Wye's Broad Street into a new restaurant.

Plans showed the restaurant will also incorporate food-related retail, and the application includes new signs and a small extension.

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A design and access statement said: "Barclays Bank has been acquired by Mr and Mrs Faulks who have recently moved to the area with their young family.

"Mr and Mrs Faulks are both highly regarded chefs and have worked in London for the past 20 years, last 10 of which were at their own establishment 'Magdalen' in London Bridge.

"The plan for the old bank is a simple restaurant/wine bar led by the seasons. A place for a proper meal or a drink and a snack at the bar.

"The applicants were originally drawn to the area by the fabulous local produce which will be an integral part of the new venture’s menu.

"This is to be an egalitarian eatery and a place for the locals as much the tourists.

"To ensure a viable and sustainable business strategy the intention is to supplement the primary A3 restaurant use with A1 retail.

"Mrs Faulks is a pastry chef and the intention is to offer a variety of cold patisserie and pre-cooked meals to local customers and those passing by."

Hereford Times: The Barclays branch in Hay-on-Wye closed in 2018 The Barclays branch in Hay-on-Wye closed in 2018

Changes to the ground floor would involve inserting a new kitchen and entrance lobby into the space, but as consultants said as they would essentially be installations that could be removed at any time, would not materially affect the Grade II listed building.

Plans show all extraction equipment would be via the existing chimney stacks.

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The proposed extension to the rear of the building would have a flat roof to ensure it is as inconspicuous as possible, consultants working on the scheme said, adding the building would be clad in horizontal strip cladding.

The first floor and ceiling would remain the same, if plans get the green light, but a small roof light is planned.

"These proposals present an opportunity to enhance a built asset which without a new use could quickly fall into disrepair," the statement said.

"The investment will ensure the defining character and appearance is maintained for current and future generations.

"The proposed changes and materials used a successful balance between making the buildings function sustainably and preserving the historic form and original built fabric. We therefore trust that this application will be supported."

Barclays announced in June 2018 that it was going to close its branch in Hay-on-Wye, leaving the border town without a bank.