Pictured above: The Vaults
A former pub and hotel in Wirksworth town centre is facing a new
lease of life as a home for two commercial units and six
apartments.
The Vaults in Coldwell Street, opposite the old town hall, was
one of six pubs in the town centre but closed 18 months ago after a
decline.
Bought by local businessman James Neville last Autumn it is to
be brought back into use under proposals drawn up by The Planning
Design Practice, based in Woburn House, Vernon Gate, Derby, which
have been approved by Derbyshire Dales District Council.
The Grade Two Listed building dates back to 1800 and became the
headquarters for wine and spirit merchant Charles Wright, who had
an office in London as well as his Wirksworth premises based in the
vaulted cellars below the hotel.
The planned commercial units on the ground floor, which will be
leased, have permission for a wide range of uses - a
café/bar, shop, financial offices, general offices or health
such use such as a doctor's or dental surgery, or by an alternative
practitioner.
There are further plans to restore the shop front to replace one
built in the 1960s to something more in keeping with the historic
character of the town.
Having identified a need for accommodation for single people or
couples in the town, the two upper floors and the rear of the
ground floor will be made into apartments.
New railings and landscaping with shrubbery will be incorporated
on the side of the building in line with a garden feature that
existed in 1900.
The refurbishment and conversion, which is set to start soon,
will involve a six-figure sum investment and it is hoped to
have the show flat ready for viewing by the time of the Wirksworth
festival in September.
As part of the work the original balustrade on the staircase
will be revealed by removing boardings put in during the 1950s.
Regency fireplaces will be preserved.
Jonathan Jenkin, managing director of The Planning Design
Practice, said: "We are pleased to have been able to work on such
an interesting building with its fascinating history and to be able
to breathe new life into it as well as restore its character as a
strong presence on the street scene.
"This is a great example of what can be achieved - the
building's historic character will be protected and enhanced, the
setting improved, there will be new moderately-priced homes, and
the business units will provide employment and enhance the town's
viability."
For more information about The Planning and Design Practice,
please visit their website here: www.planningdesign.co.uk