Historic building set to get funding for repairs

A HISTORIC building in the heart of Leek is to undergo renovation work.

At last week’s meeting of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s Moorlands Partnership Board, councillors agreed to offer a grant of £3,650 towards the work at 6 Russell Street in Leek, Staffordshire.

The building is currently home to Bellissima hair salon.

A report to councillors by executive director, Neil Rodgers, said: “Number 6 Russell Street is a fine historic building located within the Leek Conservation Area.

“It has a particularly fine and detailed shop front and has the benefit of retaining four overly sized sliding sash windows on the upper floors.

“The owner of the property is keen to retain these windows and repair them. Two estimates have been received for the works, which include the repair and overhaul of the four sash windows, their decoration and necessary scaffolding.

“The applicant has also allowed for a provisional sum of £450 to repair the fascia board and guttering.

“It is recommended that members approve a 50 per cent grant of £3,650 towards the eligible works totalling £7,300.”

Speaking at the meeting, board member Councillor Mike Gledhill, said it was a worthwhile project.

He said: “I know this building and it is in the Leek Conservation Area.

“It will be a big improvement. “A lot of people walk down this street to the town centre. I hope people will support it.”

Regeneration officer Joanne Brooks informed members that they were anticipating two grant requests coming forward.

She said: “The first one is from Cheadle Cards located in the High Street part of the town.

“This building is located on a corner and has two fronts.

“The owners are keen to reinstall a traditional shop front.

“It will need a planning application.

“The second one is for St Edward’s Park in Cheddleton. The management committee are looking at repairing six summerhouses and to get public access to the site.

“They are working on the project with Cheddleton Parish Council. An estimate for the work for all six is £23,000.”