Liverpool developer Caro Developments secures planning consent for £18m office-to-residential project that will comprise 100 apartments. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool-based Caro Developments will push on with the conversion of an office building into apartments after securing planning consent.
Acting on behalf of Caro, Liverpool architects Falconer Chester Hall got the green light for the £18m scheme in Warrington town centre. When complete the current Hilden House will comprise 100 apartments.
Located opposite the 17-acre Bank Park, the development will offer a range of amenities, including a concierge, a gym and wellness room, a residents’ lounge, and a co-working area. A dedicated secure parcel room will also be provided.
This project also includes 58 car parking spaces, as well as secure cycle and bin storage located to the rear of the building, accessed via Winmarleigh Street.
Originally submitted in 2023, the application set out plans to repurpose the former office building into a residential development, reflecting the growing demand for town centre living.
The approved design will introduce a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, designed to “optimise space, natural light, and modern amenities”. This scheme aligns with Warrington’s ongoing town centre regeneration.
Hilden House was previously occupied by the Department for Work and Pensions and was built in 1977. Caro acquired the building from Elite UK Real Estate Investment Trust in November 2024 for £3.3m, subject to planning.
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Neil Carlyle, managing director at Caro, said: “Securing planning approval marks a key milestone in delivering this exciting project.
“Our vision is to transform this well-located building into high-quality homes that will contribute to the vibrancy of Warrington town centre. We look forward to getting started on-site and bringing this development to life.”
Savills advised on planning and heritage matters, while Clancy provided structural engineering expertise as part of the project’s professional team. Work is expected to start later this year.
Robert Brym, associate director at Falconer Chester Hall, added: “The conversion of this landmark building represents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the ongoing transformation of Warrington’s town centre.”
