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New life being breathed into the currently empty Harris Institute in Avenham look set to move forward.
Preston City Council’s planning committee is expected to green light plans to convert the grade-II listed building into a gallery, art shop, conference space, café and co-working space.
Proposals from the Harris Investment Group for planning permission on the repair and conversion of the building which has stood empty for a decade are recommended for approval.
Read more: In-depth plans for new art gallery and conference centre at Harris Institute
Planning officers have attached a raft of conditions to the conversion but indicated their support for the plans which were designed by city architects Studio John Bridge.
The building, which dates back to 1849, has stood empty in Avenham Lane and recently been targeted by fly-tippers and vandals.
No objections were received to the plans for the new use, with one objection to the separate planning application for works to a listed building.
Historic England has said during works on the building specific care must be taken to treat dry rot in the building.
John Bridge of Studio John Bridge architects and speaking on behalf of the developers behind the project told Blog Preston: “As an architect, I am incredibly passionate about restoring The Harris Institute to its former glory and ensuring it becomes a thriving hub for Preston once again.
“If approved, we will be able to revive this Grade II* listed heritage asset, creating a state-of-the-art conference venue to bolster the city’s business community, a professional exhibition space for local artists, and a unique holiday let in Regent House with its beautifully restored courtyard.
“This is a crucial step in safeguarding the Harris Institute’s legacy, taking it off Historic England’s ‘Buildings At Risk’ register, and delivering much-needed spaces for gallery exhibitions, co-working, and cultural engagement. Preston deserves this, and we hope to secure the backing of the Planning Committee next week to make it a reality.”
Blog Preston understands while permission may be given then funding is still being sought to commence the actual works – although having planning permission will advance those efforts.
Councillors are due to hear about the Harris Institute plans at the city council’s planning committee on Thursday (5 December).
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