In Burnley, there are 288 listed buildings, accounting for 5% of all designated heritage assets within Lancashire as a whole. This includes the Grade II listed Yorke House. Situated next to Burnley Mechanics and the Town Hall near to the junction of Yorke Street and Manchester Road, the premises are located on one of the busiest routes into the town centre.
Previous approval had been granted to convert part of the first floor and the second floor from offices to an educational training use. The Applicant enlisted the services of Growth Lancashire to help liaise with the Council over a problem with the timber sliding sash windows at the property. This was causing delay and potentially putting the internal re-use and investment in the property at risk. Growth Lancashire’s role focussed on understanding the issues and helping to find a solution which would unblock the current impasse. The outcome was that the work has now been completed and the new tenants have occupied the building.
“I was pleased to be introduced to Growth Lancashire to assist with the works at Yorke House. The project had stalled and plans to refurbish and let the premises to a new tenant were at risk. Growth Lancashire acted quickly, agreeing a concise and practical way forward. Without their input, we would not have achieved such a positive outcome in the timescales. I have since recommended their services to other business contacts.” — Jimmy Pilling, owner/developer
Elsewhere in Burnley, Growth Lancashire was asked to advise private owners on potential works to refurbish and extend a residential Listed Building, which had been unoccupied. The company’s Lead for Specialist Services provided guidance on a range of issues including changing windows, internal alterations, and a possible future extension to the rear of the property. The owners also enquired about any attempt to get the building de-listed.
Through the provision of impartial and specialist advice, Growth Lancashire was able to help the owners clarify important matters and give them the information which would help them make the right decisions moving forwards.