Plans to renovate and convert historic former stables in Thurstaston into residential accommodation have been submitted to Wirral Council.
The project proposes the renovation and conversion of the building known as the Clock Tower on Station Road, which is thought to date back to 1892 and was listed in 1986.
A design and access statement submitted to planners by Shack Architecture states: “The proposed scheme looks to sympathetically convert the disused stable and workshop areas into residential use, providing a connection to the existing converted parts of the building.
“The owners are keen to preserve and enhance the original features that are still evident within the spaces whilst making the necessary interventions to make the rooms suitable for inhabitation.
“There is also a proposed contemporary glazed extension overlooking the gardens which are currently completely separate from the dwelling.”
There will also be repairs to the outside of the historic part of the house and refurbishment of the existing timber windows.
The report says that dividing panels and railings which will be removed to open the space up will be “carefully stored on site in the event that the stables ever need to be reinstated.”
It adds: “The proposed scheme presented here contributes a new chapter in the life of this building. Since its construction some 140 years ago the Clock Tower has undergone significant changes in terms of its function.
“Despite being partially converted into residential use, many of the original rooms still retain their features and character. This project seeks to respect and retain the historic core and to merely add another layer to this building’s rich history.
“The proposal maintains the integrity of the building and looks to extend its life by making a contemporary family home that will preserve and enhance the historic fabric, yet will not fundamentally change its make-up so that in the future it would be relatively easy to revert back to its original use.
“In conclusion we would argue that the interventions proposed will enhance the existing building, will not prove detrimental either to the conservation area or the listed building and in our view should be supported.”
The plans can be viewed at https://online.wirral.gov.uk/planning/index.html?fa=getApplication&id=227414.
Image credits: Shack Architecture
