Sunderland based architects unveil CG images of police station transformation

New visuals of the proposed transformation of the former Ulverston Police Station and Courthouse have been revealed.

Ulverston and Sunderland based architectural and engineering practice, Building Design Northern (BDN), unveiled “ambitious” plans to breathe new life into the former constabulary buildings earlier this month.

New computer generated images of the re-imagined space have been released, displaying how the award-winning practice will redevelop the damaged, disused buildings into a mixed-use development of commercial space, offices, boutique serviced accommodation and new homes, with a tasteful and sympathetic programme of restoration.

Having exchanged contracts on the site last month, BDN’s planning application outlines proposals that incorporate elements of the site’s rich heritage in a bid to sensitively re-establish the site.

Stood vacant since 2015, the former Police Station will be reimagined with the five old jail cells repurposed as two boutique serviced rooms, with their own en-suites and kitchenette space. Demolished prior to BDN’s acquisition of the site, the ‘West Wing’, which historically housed the superintendent’s quarters, will be rebuilt to house seven further serviced rooms.

BDN will also establish a new North West headquarters in the main police station building if the plans are approved, which will include a communal kitchen, meeting room and desk space for the expanding practice.

One and two-bedroom dwellings are proposed to replace the former MOT garages and stables buildings, with the design centred around communal green and amenity space to foster a sense of community amongst residents.

A single storey extension is proposed to the Courthouse, to create a new restaurant pavilion, with a surrounding courtyard of former garages to be converted into independent commercial space, that is expected to attract a range of local businesses. The upper floor will consist of generous boutique accommodation suites.

The multi-million project to restore the buildings has been designed and will be led by BDN. The firm is also behind the £2m regeneration of a former railway stables in the shadow of Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light, which is being sensitively restored and revitalised, into a mixed-use food, drink and leisure venue.

Joe Warner, director of architecture and head of BDN’s Ulverston office, commented: “BDN is proud to be pioneering a development which will transform a key Ulverston landmark for the local community to enjoy. We can’t wait to continue to engage with local communities as the development progresses, if our plans are granted approval.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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