It’s a safe house
MODERN times have led to thousands of properties left unused and unloved across Britain, at risk of being demolished or snapped up by big developers.
But a change in planning laws means it’s easier to change the use of these local landmarks.
So you can turn anything from a shop to a pub or bakery into a family home.
George Clarke says: “It’s possible to reinvent these buildings as unique and remarkable homes, providing glimpses of their former lives. But taking on these historical gems is not for the faint hearted.”
This charming series sees George meet people brave enough to take on these ambitious projects, breathing new life into the country’s architecture.
In the Cornish town of St Columb Major, he meets couple Richard and Sarah, who used their local high street bank for 20 years before it shut.
A grand Victorian Grade IIlisted building with a serious architectural pedigree, it was boarded up and put in for auction. Seeing the potential to turn it into a unique family home, the couple offered a sealed bid of £50,000 and were gobsmacked when they won it.
“Shut up, you’ve just robbed a bank!” squeals George.
Now they just have to convert the 130-year-old building, complete with an enormous safe behind a two-tonne door.
Their plan is to turn the safe into a pantry, preserve the grand staircase, and transform the bank manager’s office, storage areas and staff room into bedrooms and living space for them and their two young daughters. But it will be no mean feat...