Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

14 / 16 West Row

Occupying a central location in the area, this building group is comprised of two former warehouses built around a small courtyard and joined by first and second floor offices.

The right hand side of the building dates originally from the mid 18th century and has been significantly modified on at least two occasions with upper floors added during the 19th century and a new front constructed in the mid 20th century.  The left hand side of the building dates from the late 19th century and is largely intact with a roof winch over the courtyard with central lowering hatches to the open three storey warehouse floors.

The owner of this property has exciting plans for returning the building to use as artist studios and workshops, undertaking traditional and contemporary arts. The workshops will be supported by a retail outlet for selling produce within the building, with the opportunity to hold demonstration courses.

These proposals have been submitted and obtained planning approval.  

Application

Phase1

A grant was awarded for Phase One of the scheme during 2008/09.  This grant covered works to make the roof of the largest building in the group, that on the left, wind and water tight.  This phase has now been completed and at the same time the owner self-funded repairs to the flat roof of the 20th century structure. 

Phase 2

Phase 2 of the works includes the restoration of 32 windows and doors within the larger warehouse to the left.

Phase 3

A grant was awarded for the works to 14 West Row during 2010 / 11.  This covers making the rear of the building on the right, the oldest part of the group, wind and watertight.

Design
The owner has engaged a RIBA Heritage Accredited Architect to ensure that a sensitive approach is maintained to this valuable building. SHiP funding allows a more conservation lead approach to be adopted. 

Planning
Existing consents are in place for the change of use to the building that have agreed conditions to ensure work meets the needs of the conservation area.

Separate consents will need to the sought for Phase 3 of the works.

Evaluation
The buildings are being targeted for refurbishment as they occupy a prominent position on West Row and will create a valuable new cultural facility in the town centre, contributing to the wider regeneration of West Row and the Town Centre and supporting the aspirations for the SHiP area in terms of the future development of cultural industries and live/work units in the area, strategically and physically closely aligned with ARC.

The project will require close liaison between council services to support the development. The effectiveness of this will be a key element of the evaluation that will look at both the quality of the repair and restoration and the additional benefits of local job creation and increased cultural activity.

Progress

Phase 1

Work commenced in May 2009 with the prevention of pigeon access before decontamination of the upper floors was completed.  Scaffolding was erected during July 2009 and work on the roof took place during August and September.  Timber rotted by water penetration has been replaced and the roof made wind and water tight.  Further decay has been arrested and the building is drying out ready for further works to be undertaken. 

Phase 2

The start of physical works was delayed whilst a building control issue was addressed. Work started on site in July 2011.

Phase 3

The detailed design for the works at 14 West Row is currently being developed. Clearance of the site prior to the start of works commenced in July 2011. 

Last Updated on 07.09.11

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