ONE of York's largest family owned city centre stores is looking to lease part of its premises as Mulberry Hall's owner explores a potential downsizing.

Independent fine-china and crystal specialist Mulberry Hall, which dates back more than 55 years in the city, is advertising the lease for more than two thirds of its current floorspace in Stonegate.

Advertised through property agency Blacks, the current Mulberry Hall has been split into three separate units, with 15 Stonegate, and two to four Little Stonegate being offered on a leasehold basis, with the Mulberry Hall retaining 17 Stonegate.

Mulberry Hall's managing director Adam Sinclair stressed no decision have been made as to the future of the business, and the leases are being offered on a "speculative" basis to "create options for the future".

He said: "The business is changing radically, as it is for many retailers, businesses and organisations across the spectrum.

"Some of it is moving online and we need to consider all potential options for the future, including reducing our ancillary space and focussing on a smaller number of brands.

"This may or may not mean a rationalisation of our floorspace, thereby reverting to our roots, and/or development of more diverse products, sales and activities - no decisions have been taken."

The lease for 15 Stonegate is being offered at £145,000 per annum, and includes first floor retail space as well as the second floor cafe and conservatory, as well as office space.

Number two and four Little Stonegate, which currently features Mulberry Hall's cookware department, covers around 2,265sq ft on the ground floor and 2,279st ft on the first floor is being marketed at £75,000 per annum.