Award-winning family business brings new lease of life to historic West Kirby building

Graham Allsop
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A landmark West Kirby building is being restored to its former glory thanks to a local family business.

The former HSBC building, in Grange Road, which dates back to 1887, was bought earlier this year by the Allsop family, who run the award-winning Mortgage & Insurance Needs.

The business, which has been trading for 13 years, is jointly run and owned by George and Carolyn Allsop along with their sons George and Elliot.

Builders uncovered the original ceiling
Builders uncovered the original ceiling

Currently, the business is based just off Banks Road, but they are hoping to relocate to their grand new premises in October.

Graham said: “We have been looking for new premises for the past two years as our business has steadily outgrown our current offices.

“Once we heard that the old HSBC building was up for sale we knew we wanted it. We actually lost out initially but it came back on the market and our offer was accepted.

“It’s a wonderful building with so many original features that we want to make sure we restore it sympathetically.”

The original floor
The original floor

Plans for the building include office space on the ground floor to house the Allsop’s mortgage company. Upstairs is being converted into eight, luxury flats.

During the renovation work, builders uncovered the original, coved ceiling and a stunning tiled floor, which are now being restored.

The new office will also incorporate the original bank vault into its design.

As well as moving offices, the business is also expanding and will create five new job, along with three apprentice positions.