Reworked Chester Shot Tower scheme approved
Whitecroft Group’s revised plans for the listed tower and former leadworks site have received planning consent with main contractor CPUK due to start work on the project in the coming weeks.
The redevelopment will comprise 54-one and two-bedroom apartments, 15-two and three-bedroom duplex apartments and 3 four-bedroom townhouses.
Demolition and various enabling works have already been undertaken, with construction expected to start in the next few weeks.
David Giovanni, managing director at Whitecroft, said: “After listening to feedback from local stakeholders, we’re incredibly happy with the new plans. We really wanted to be sympathetic to the heritage of the site whilst ensuring that it met the needs of modern homeowners, with open-plan living and contemporary features.
“The scale of this project is extraordinary and there is nothing else in Chester of this prominence or quality. We’ve already had an influx of enquiries for the townhouses, which will be sensational.”
The development sits on the opposite side of the Shropshire Union Canal to the city’s central Waitrose store. The project includes repair work to the tower and future-proofing of the site’s retained buildings.
Plans were resubmitted in autumn 2017. Originally granted consent in August 2016, at which point Altrincham developer Whirecroft was working with Neptune, the scheme was then reworked by DLA Design into the 72-home scheme that will now move forward.
The development now includes two main wings in red brick, intended to complement the grade two-listed 40m tower, with each wing faced with what is described as a “striking grey aluminium outer face to the east and a warm copper coloured metal to the west”.
Giovanni continued: “We really want to set a clear benchmark in design for upcoming developments in the city. Everything from the build quality and aesthetics, to internal layout and functionality, has been carefully planned to ensure these homes are phenomenal.
“This is a landmark site for Chester and a stand-out development for us. We’re excited to see the project to completion.”
