An enterprising new magazine has been published aimed at promoting the re-use of older properties in north-west England which are in need of restoration or refurbishment.
The Property Portfolio,(*) published by the North West Civic Trust, gives details of buildings which are currently on the market for sale or to let. The magazine has been distributed free of charge to 3,000 people.
Currently available buildings waiting for imaginative owners include the Barkerend Mill, Bradford (possibilities for light industrial uses), St Thomas’ Church, Preston (any use considered which will lead to the retention of the building), the former Odeon cinema in Oldham (leisure activities considered), Shaddon Mill, Carlisle (50,000 sq ft of floorspace currently available at 50p-75p per sq ft) and Bracebridge Pumping Station in Worksop (planning permission given for use as a public house).
The magazine also includes features on the Civic Trust award scheme, which show what can be achieved with older buildings. Among the projects featured is the Atrium in Booth Street, Manchester. This is an unusual development carried out by European Property Corporation and IMI Pensions Trust which has created a unique office complex in the heart of the city’s business community. The scheme retained two listed Victorian facades, while gutting the interior to create new office units.
(*) The North West Civic Trust, The Environmental Institute, Greaves School, Bolton Road, Swinton, Manchester M27 2UX.
