12, The Foregate

No. 12 The Foregate is a shop and offices built around the 1890s, with some later alterations. The building is constructed of reddish-orange brick in Flemish bond, featuring an ashlar first floor and dressings, a concealed roof, and brick end stacks topped with ashlar cornices and pots.

On the first floor, there are wide outer pilasters and Ionic columns in antis, along with four lower bands. Flanking the central window, which is a single light with a transom, are two sets of three-light mullion and transom windows with segmental heads, all set in moulded surrounds with sills. A continuous cornice runs above the first floor.

The second floor has a continuous sill band moulded below the windows, which consist of seven 1/1 horned sash windows in moulded reveals, featuring stepped keystones, two lower bands, and upper quoins. This level is adorned with a continuous egg and dart frieze and a modillion cornice, with outer cartouches between.

The upper stage includes a continuous sill band moulded under the windows, with an outer single light with a transom and a central three-light mullion and transom window, all having moulded surrounds, quoins, and keystones. The outer windows have segmental-arched upshots leading to a taller flattened pediment at the center, all embellished with finials and side scrolls.

The ground floor features a shop front with timber pilasters, moulded brackets with strapwork, a continuous egg and dart frieze, and a moulded cornice. The shop front has been renewed in a period style, with glazed windows and central double doors.

Inside, there is a dog-leg staircase with cast-iron stick balusters, five-panel doors, and a scrolled bracket supporting the upper landing. The first floor contains two timber mantlepieces, and there are two cast-iron fireplaces in the attic.

Nos. 11-15 The Foregate form a notable late Victorian commercial group, showcasing a spirited Northern Renaissance style.