A Liverpool city region council tower block that has been empty for a number of years is to be brought back to life with plans for 58 homes for rent. Tony McDonough reports
Developer Carroll Group has agreed a deal with Sefton Council to convert a long-empty tower block and create 58 apartments for rent.
In September the council approved proposals to redevelop Vine House in Seaforth after being approached by Carroll Group. Before that there were plans to demolish the building, which has been empty for a number of years.
Now Carroll Group has agreed to take on the project with Sefton Council committed to ensuring the new homes are let to families and individuals with a local connection to the area.
Cllr Daren Veidman, Sefton Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for housing said: “I am delighted we have been able to reach agreement with Carroll Group to bring Vine House back into use and provide homes for people with a connection to the area.
“We are committed to tackling the huge need for housing in Sefton, so it’s great to see these 58 apartments coming back into use instead of the building being demolished.
“The work will also mean wider improvements to the area and will benefit the local community in Seaforth.”
Both parties have now entered into a building lease, with Sefton Council keeping the freehold of the building until the refurbishment is complete. This means the council can make sure the refurbishment is satisfactory and on time.
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Terry Carroll, Managing director of Carroll Group, added: “We are a family run building company with real experience in delivering residential housing, and we are proud to be working with Sefton Council to bring Vine House back into use.
“We are working closely with Sefton Council to ensure we can offer incentives like discounted rents to local people that meet the local connection criteria.
“Our aim is to create a sustainable, high-quality development that not only provides much needed homes but also genuinely regenerates the local area. We are committed to delivering a scheme that the community in Seaforth can be proud of for years to come.”