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15.07.2024

Repurposing Older Buildings

The focus of Lord Street Living is to encourage conversion of vacant spaces above shops into residential uses to help revitalise Southport town centre.  However, we acknowledge that there are are increasing numbers of vacant retails spaces and some building where conversion of upper floors to residential is not appropriate or possible.  So what can be done with these difficult spaces?  Lichfields.UK have some ideas...

There have been changes to the high street in most places over the past 40 years with the growth of out of town shopping centres, series of economic pressures and changing shopping habits.  Consequently, some of the larger historic buildings are not fully realising their income potential and many units are remaining vacant.  Lichfields UK note that repurposing buildings can make a lot of sense being cost effective and providing a sustainable option, though this is not without challenges to viability.  However, they have recently produced a report 'Out with the old in with the new' which looks at how to repurpose town centre buildings for new uses and overcoming the challenges you might face. The focus is on historic buildings and looks at a variety of case studies for different uses. 

You can read Lichfields report by clicking the link below.

Out with the Old

Remember, if you have vacant space in your historic building, get in touch to discuss your ideas with us and see how we can help.