A Merseyside building that housed the offices of a newspaper and its printing presses for more than 100 years is to be converted into apartments. Andrew Brown reports
New apartments are to be created at a Merseyside building that was home to a newspaper for more than 100 years.
Until 2016, 26-32 Tulketh Street in Southport town centre was occupied by the Southport Visiter newspaper and website,. Now it is to be converted into 26 self contained flats on the first and second floors.
Its ground floor, adjacent to the Sports Direct complex, will be divided and converted into three new commercial / retail units.
From the 1890s it had housed journalists, photographers, printers, advertising executives working on the Southport Visiter. It was also a temporary home to Southport Library for four years, while work on The Atkinson was taking place.
This followed a successful campaign by former Coronation Street star and librarian Jean Alexander (Hilda Ogden).
Sefton Council has now granted planning permission for developer Wallford in Middleton to go ahead with the conversion plans.
In a report to councillors, Sefton Council chief planning officer Derek McKenzie, said: “The building is a non-designated heritage asset however the proposed development would not cause any harm to its appearance and would result in a vacant building being brought back into use.
“The proposed development accords with the national prescribed space standards and adequate natural light would be provided in all habitable rooms.
“The building is within the designated town centre and is readily accessible by non-car modes of transport. The plans submitted show spaces for car and cycle parking.”
No objections to the scheme were received from neighbouring residents or businesses.
Wallford in Middleton submitted a planning application to Sefton Council, prepared by Gold Sketch Studios.
In their submission, they said: “The proposal at 26-32 Tulketh Street will be in keeping with the local area and have a minimal visual impact on the heritage asset and the surrounding area.
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“Consideration is given to the historical value of the building and its architectural features. The goal is to achieve a design that respects the building’s history while enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal
“The rejuvenation of a derelict and vandalised property brings new life and vitality to the surrounding area, particularly through the creation of new shops and job opportunities.
“The transformation of the property from a neglected state to a thriving commercial space contributes to the overall improvement of the neighbourhood.”