Ambitious project to revamp site unveiled
THE latest step in the ongoing drive to regenerate Runcorn town centre has been unveiled as Halton Borough Council announced plans to redevelop Camden Buildings.
Under the proposals, part of the site will be transformed into an indoor “winter garden” including for cultural events, while the former Gas Store will become a creative and digital skills centre for volunteer and neighbourhood groups.
Designs tabled by K2 Architects showed that part of the rear of the building could be dramatically refurbished with full floor-to-ceiling windows across the width of the central part of the block.
A floor plan showed a proposal for Mako Create training group to occupy the top floor, a radio station on the middle floor and A Place For Us performing arts on the ground floor.
The plans are part of the £23.6m Runcorn Town Deal programme, with funding sourced from the Government.
In order to pursue the renovation, Halton Council has acquired 65 High Street – the former Gas Store and part of Camden Buildings – with some other units remaining in private ownership.
A local authority spokeswoman said the project is among a series of schemes intended to put High Street “at the heart of our community again”.
She said the council is drawing inspiration from High Street Heritage Action Zones promoted by Historic England.
Renovation of Camden Buildings will be complemented by the nearby overhaul of 71 High Street nearby and to be occupied by the Hazlehurst Arts Collective and 10 additional artist studios by the end of the year.
Although 71 High Street is a listed building, Camden Buildings are not.
The spokeswoman said repurposing Camden Buildings will be “technically challenging” due to the mix of ownership and “poor” structural condition in places.
She said the winter garden is based on a similar site on Granby Street in Liverpool.
The proposals could mark revived fortunes for Camden Buildings after years dominated by vacancies, culminating in a huge cannabis farm with 300 plants across four floors being found in an empty block in 2019.
Commenting on the plans, Cllr Dave Thompson, deputy council leader, said: “Runcorn has a historic old town centre.
“Town Deal funding is helping us to invest in the High Street and restore the historic frontage of the Camden Buildings on the High Street.
“Bringing this historic block of Victorian property back into use will benefit the local community.”