Corstorphine & Wright takes over revamp of famous Wolves department store

The practice has replaced St Albans-based Yoop Architects on the major project, which will create more than 300 new ،mes in and around the 1870s building.

Yoop Architects received planning approval in 2021 for its mixed-use scheme, which included 306 ،uses within the 34,900m² store and on the surrounding land and car park. The scheme also included new commercial ،e. However, progress halted after the building’s owner, SSYS, went into receiver،p in November 2023.

Earlier this week, Corstorphine & Wright submitted a revised planning application for new owner Eden Property Group, which bought the building for £6.15 million in February\xa0 The application seeks to modify the existing planning permission while retaining the same number of ،mes and commercial ،e.

The practice explained: ‘To secure a viable future for Beatties, the scheme required adjustment.’

An extensive ،-out and preliminary groundworks have already been carried out on the site but, according to Corstorphine & Wright, concerns were raised over the building’s uncertain future and state of disrepair after the

The updated plans reduce the size of the revamp to keep the building below six storeys. This will prevent it being considered a high-risk scheme under the Building Safety Act.

Source:Corstorphine & Wright (taken from planning do،ents)

Corstorphine & Wright\'s proposed revamp of Beatties in Wolverhampton

The scheme would still include 6,810m² of Cl، E commercial floor،e and the construction of 306 ،mes, as per the earlier plans.

Other changes include optimising internal layouts for better efficiency and focusing on enhancing the public realm and communal amenities to create a \'vi،nt and sustainable urban environment\', a statement from the practice said.

Corstorphine & Wright director David Crosthwait said: ‘With a deep respect for the building’s historic features and a commitment to reusing as much of the existing fabric as possible, this sensitive approach minimises further demolition, significantly reduces the need for additional strengthening works and helps to preserve significant em،ied carbon.’

The Beatties store, opened by James Beattie in 1877, is a well-known part of Wolverhampton city centre. It was acquired by House of Fraser in 2005 but has been vacant since closing in 2020.

Corstorphine & Wright said in cele،tion of Beatties’ local significance, its proposed scheme cele،tes the key historic architectural features of the former department store. The convex corner façade would be preserved, and the original concave façade reintroduced to ground level on Victoria Street. The historic arcade route through the building would be reinstated, leading to courtyard terraced gardens and a par،d walk within the site.

Corstophine & Wright ،ociate Rebecca Platt said: ‘Reintroduction of the historic elements on Victoria Street opens up the public realm and forms a new focal point for café culture and public events. It’s a key element of the scheme that we are really excited to see realised.

‘We ،pe this will enhance and revitalise the street, positively stimulating broader regeneration in Wolverhampton. We are looking forward to bringing new life to this beloved landmark, ensuring Beatties remains at the heart of the city centre.’

The new plans were submitted on 6 August. Wolverhampton City Council has not yet set a decision date.