A MULTI-MILLION pound redevelopment of Worcester’s old historic fire station will commence this spring, thanks to the new owners who have taken over the historic landmark.
Worcestershire-based Guthrie Roberts has exciting plans for the building and surrounding site, with heritage being at the forefront and are already encouraging public assistance in choosing a new name for the residential aspect of the site which has lain empty for six years.
Maintaining and respecting the external facade of the building is a priority such as preserving the symbolic fire station entrance bays.
The building was designed by Percy Thomas, who also designed the former police station opposite. There is noticeable early 20th century arts and crafts elements, similar to the style of Lutyen’s, whose work was based on traditional Queen Anne buildings such as Hanbury Hall, and Guthrie Roberts are keen to maintain these features and integrate them into their plans.
Ben Roberts, managing director of Guthrie Roberts said: “We have some inspiring plans to develop the site into a mix of residential and commercial use. Our plans include approximately 28 luxury, contemporary apartments, a mix of one, two and three-beds, to provide options for a broad range of buyers in the heart of Worcester.
“We intend to have an exciting commercial unit on the ground floor. There will be a novel city garden for residents, external walkways, a courtyard for private car parking and luxurious interiors.
“The commercial space will be accessed from Copenhagen Street, where the current fire engine bay entrances will be renovated to create eye-catching frontages. This is a very desirable location with the high street adjacent and Copenhagen Street being the main pedestrian thoroughfare from the river to the city centre.
“We are also seeking planning permission for a breath-taking attic conversion creating a third floor of domestic dwellings. We hope to make best use of the annex building, with a modern addition on the top floor, creating a deluxe penthouse apartment with stunning views.
“Our plans carefully consider parking, green space and sustainability, encompassing a landscaped city garden and electric car share scheme for a portion of the car park. We are exploring renewable energy supplies such as air source heat pumps and solar PV panels,” he added.
Guthrie Roberts has already consulted with local neighbours and Worcester City and Worcestershire County Councils.
Whilst the name for the commercial side of the site will retain the iconic old fire station status, Guthrie Roberts is asking for members of public to choose their favourite name for the residential side from a list of 12 names.
Visit www.guthrieroberts.com/old-fire-station for more.
