Historic town centre building left in disrepair could be restored

Plans have been lodged to bring a historic 19th Century building back to life in Mansfield – while restoring it to its former glory.

The building, at 15 Church Street, was once home to hardware firm Blake and Beeley but has sat derelict for a number of years.

However, under plans submitted to Mansfield District Council, the historic building could be brought back to life – with proposals for a new shop front and a five-bed shared occupancy home.

The Church Street building has a side house at number 15A, also listed as a heritage site, which lies underneath the huge viaduct running through the town centre.

Under the plans, the building which is “suffering badly” from a lack of maintenance and has suffered from an asbestos roof, will be repaired and brought back into use.

The five-bedroom house would be used as a shared occupancy rented property, located off Church Street, while the existing shop front would be given a makeover before bringing more trade back into the historic street.

In the planning documents, submitted by Paul Hicking Associates, state: “Number 15A is currently empty and is suffering badly from a lack of maintenance and not being cared for.

“For instance, the lead flashing to the roof have been ripped out of the walls by vandals, leaving the building subject to rainwater ingress.

“Numbers 15 and 15A were for many years a hardware store known as Blake and Beeley. This shop was known by many Mansfield people and was a treasure house of materials and tools for DIY and professional building tradespeople alike.

“Sadly the building now lies empty. However, the owner is in the process of seeking approval for the change of use to a five-bed house in multiple occupation and retail shop with related alterations.

“Work has currently commenced on the building in accordance with the current planning and listed building approval, to make the building water tight and carry out essential repairs – including the removal of the existing asbestos roof.”

Plans were also revealed to bring the former Post Office, also on Church Street, back into use last month, with proposals suggesting the old Royal Mail site could be used as a shop front with apartments above.

Plans will be discussed by Mansfield District Council’s planning committee at a later date.