Work on restoring Cross Street building begins

An empty building off Winckley Square is to be brought back into use after a decade of standing empty.

Thanks to a six-figure sum from the Heritage Lottery Fund 1-2 Cross Street is to be revamped by Anderton Gables.

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The commercial building surveying firm are bringing the office, on the corner of Winckley Square and Cross Street, back into use as offices.

Work has already begun on the project and they’ve uncovered original features such as stained glass which are being retained and used a feature in the completed project.

Managing director Jonathan Shaw said: “We are very excited to have purchased 1-2 Cross Street. With the assistance of the Heritage Lottery Fund we will be able to rejuvenate the building and transform it into an ultra-modern workspace that our staff deserve.

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“Work has already begun onsite and we are hoping to move into our new Head Office early next year.”

The funding, £100,000, is the second pot of money from the lottery for the Winckley Square Townscape Heritage Initiative.

This has seen key buildings in the Georgian Square targeted for rebuilding and restoration work.

Cabinet member for planning and regulation at Preston City Council councillor Peter Moss said: “We’re delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund provided the funding to enable this project to progress. And also that a local company are investing and relocating within the Winckley Square Conservation Area.

“The current owners have come up with a scheme to reinstate the building, preserve original features where possible but introduce modern fittings, making it attractive and fit for purpose in a demanding 21st century environment.

“It’s fantastic to see another historical Preston building brought back into use. This supports ongoing regeneration projects in the city and will help to sustain our economic growth.”

What do you think about the Square? What would you like to see happen? Let us know your views in the comments below