The property known locally for years as ‘Howells’ in the centre of Cardiff and more recently as the House of Fraser is about to close as a retail shop.

It could reopen as a five-star hotel.

The landlord of the Grade II-listed building is in conversation with three hotel operators regarding the possibility of converting it into a five-star hotel with between 120 to 150 bedrooms.

The retail chain has indicated a closure date in 2019.

House of Fraser is located in St Mary Street in the centre of Cardiff.