The former Southport Visiter newspaper office in Southport town centre could soon become home to 26 new apartments.
Wallford Ltd in Middleton has submitted a planning application to Sefton Council , prepared by
Gold Sketch Studios LTD, for a change of use for the self-contained flats to be built on part of the ground floor, plus the first and second floors.
The firm has previously applied for planning permission to create three new shops or commercial premises on the ground floor.
They said: “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 building was home to the Southport Visiter series of newspapers and websites for over 100 years before it was closed in 2016.
The Southport Visiter website and the free Midweek Visiter website have subsequently been closed, while the paid-for Southport Visiter – which has been published since 1844 – remains on sale every Thursday.
Despite its history, the building is not Listed and is a “non-designated heritage asset”.
The site has been frequently vandalised since its closure seven years ago.
In its application, Gold Sketch Studios LTD on behalf of Wallford Ltd said: “Careful consideration has been given to the design to ensure that significant architectural features of the building remain unaffected.
“The proposed design is carefully developed to seamlessly integrate with the existing architectural features.
“The new elements are designed in a way that complements and harmonises with the original design, ensuring a cohesive and unified appearance.
“Consideration is given to the historical value of the building and its architectural features. Any proposed changes aim to respect and preserve the original design intent, materials, and craftsmanship.
“Due to the location of the applicant site in relation to a non-designated heritage asset, there will be minimal impact on the fabric of the non-designated heritage asset.
The Southport Visiter office on Tulketh Street in Southport. Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
“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.
“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
“This exciting redevelopment of the derelict property at 26-32 Tulketh Street will enhance the local area and will rejuvenate the property on the high street and have a positive impact on the non-designated heritage asset.
“Based on the information provided, it can be concluded that the proposed development will have a minimal impact on the heritage asset.
“The limited changes to the building’s façade, along with the acknowledgment that the local setting is not the same, suggest that the development will not significantly alter or compromise the heritage value of the asset.
“Due to the points raised in this assessment, there will only be a positive outcome from this application being granted.”
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrownn@gmail.com
