A QUIRKY listed building tucked away behind shops in Hereford could be turned into a home and gallery if a renowned London artist's plans are approved.

Applicant Hercules Fisherman wants to convert a tiny grade II listed black and white building in Hereford's High Town from commercial use to residential use.

The outbuilding, which has 17th century origins, is hidden away in the Maylord shopping centre goods yard and was previously used as a storage building associated with 14 and 15 High Town, architects Koda said in a Heritage Impact Statement.

It survived when other historic buildings in the area were cleared to make way for the Maylord Orchards development in 1988.

Koda said the building currently lacks meaningful use and is at risk of falling into further disrepair.

"The current owner and applicant is a successful London based artist and gallery owner," they said.

"Mr Fisherman has a formidable reputation for pop up exhibitions and events since the 1980’s and is currently running the successful exhibition ‘Our Wonderful Culture’ in Covent Garden. He proposes to turn the building into a live work unit and gallery space for local artists to also showcase their work."

The proposal seeks to use the ground floor of the building as an artist's workshop and gallery, with the upper floors converted into living accommodation.

"The proposal seeks to secure meaningful use of an underutilised Grade II Listed building with Hereford's Central Conservation Area," Koda said.

"The change of use requires minimal intervention and no loss to the historic fabric. The proposals do not present a net loss to the significance of the building and respect the historic significance and features of the existing fabric."