6 And 10, Castle Street

This property comprises two linked semi-detached villas, originally likely built as a single dwelling, and now used as offices. The left-hand villa, number 10 (incorporating the former number 12), was probably constructed in the early 19th century, with the right-hand villa, number 6 (including the former number 8), added later. Both have undergone alterations, including the creation of a connecting link, subdivision, and the addition of a third storey to the right-hand villa. A comprehensive restoration and repair scheme was undertaken around 1998 following a period of dereliction.

The buildings are constructed of orange-red brick with hipped slate roofs, with the roof on the right-hand property being concealed. Stone sills are present, and a projecting rendered band on the right-hand villa indicates the original eaves level. Party wall stacks are located on the left-hand property, while end stacks are on the right. A wrought-iron balcony balustrade is a prominent feature. Each villa has a double-depth plan, with a hall and staircase positioned between the front and rear rooms.

Number 10 has two storeys plus a cellar and attic. It features two first-floor windows with 8/8 sash windows in plain reveals under flat, gauged brick arches. Ground-floor windows are similar, and a cambered roof dormer on the right incorporates 3/3 sliding sashes. The entrances are symmetrical, with steps leading to five-panel replacement doors, each topped with a fanlight featuring a radial and segmental pattern and flanked by a fluted pilaster doorcase with an open pediment.

Number 6 is three storeys high, with a cellar beneath. The first floor has three windows: a central French window with margin glazing (the overlight displaying Gothic tracery) and a balcony with a traceried balustrade; flanked by 8/8 sashes. Similar sashes are found on the ground floor, while the second floor has 4/4 sashes. All windows are in plain reveals under flat, gauged brick arches. The central entrance has a five-panel replacement door, radial and segmental pattern fanlight, and a moulded architrave with a semi-circular head. A former entrance to number 8, once located within the linking brickwork, is now blocked with matching masonry.

The interiors retain some original features, including staircases in both number 6 and what was formerly number 8; these staircases feature square balusters and wreathed handrails. Stone-flagged floors are found in the former ground-floor service rooms, and a cast-iron fireplace is also original. Most of the internal joinery and decorative plasterwork has been renewed, but based on original details. An Ordnance Survey map from 1886 depicts the buildings as linked, and shows the right-hand villa as two separate dwellings.