Redevelopment projects have accelerated since the end of recession, with developers keen to acquire exciting properties with varied scope. This has been seen mainly in London, with current schemes including Admiralty Arch and Battersea Power Station undergoing transformation.
Yet one of the latest redevelopments in the pipeline is located in a market town within Greater Manchester. This week, developers were granted planning permission to begin work on Rochdale post office, a Grade II listed building, with a view to transforming it into a buzzing bar and restaurant venue.
The Georgian building has been used as a post office since 1927. However, with the current changes being made to the Royal Mail and Post Office brands, Manchester-based developer Hurstwood believes that it will make an ideal leisure property.
Sales director at Hurstwood, Mark Carling, says; “This planning consent opens up the possibilities for a range of potential occupiers when the building comes back to the market.
“The old post office is a landmark building in Rochdale and we are keen to see it back in use as soon as possible.”
Although no plans have as yet been revealed, it is believed that the building will now undergo an extensive interior refurbishment which will modernise facilities whilst still keeping true to the building’s heritage. Hurstwood intends to carry out renovations over the coming months before placing the property up for sale in December.
Obviously, this news means that a new site will have to be found for the town’s Post Office branch – something which bosses are currently looking into. It is understood that the new branch will be located in the town centre in close vicinity to the existing premises, and could potentially see the Post Office operating as a concession within another retail business which has become commonplace in other areas of the country.
A spokesperson said; “Rochdale post office is currently operated by a temporary sub-postmaster and Post Office Ltd is currently assessing interest from a number of potential new operators who wish to take on the service for the long term.
“Customers should be assured that the Post Office is committed to maintaining a service in the area – the current service will continue to operate until an agreement is reached with a permanent agent.”
A relocation of the branch would be subject to a public consultation.
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