Dee House redevelopment contest begins
Cheshire West & Chester Council have started formally inviting proposals for the submission of concept schemes for the redevelopment of Dee House next to the remains of the Roman amphitheatre in Chester city centre.
CWAC said: “Historic England has expressed a firm view that the building should be retained and brought back to beneficial use. The redevelopment should enhance the setting of the amphitheatre and support an active and vibrant public realm adjacent to the building. The objective of this initial marketing exercise is to identify [around] three developers to progress to the second stage of the selection evaluation, when they will be invited to prepare a detailed viable solution for the refurbishment of this prominent landmark building.”
Built in the early 18th Century for a former Mayor of Chester, Dee House has stood empty for more than 20 years. It was previously used as a convent and an office.
The deadline for expressions of interest is close of business 30 July.
The council couldn’t make up its mind on similar proposals 20 years ago! What’s changed this time ? What a waste of time and money.
By Mark Thomas
20yrs is nothing on a c 2000 yr old site – if decent, imaginative high design quality proposals come forward taking historic environment issues into account. No one wants empty buildings. A chance for someone to excel here!
By Sarah-Jane Farr