Plans revealed to turn two former office blocks into 176 luxury apartments

Plans are under way to transform two prominent yet unoccupied buildings in the heart of Chester into 176 high-end apartments, with Blueoak Estates steering the redevelopment of Tower House and Charterhall House. The city-based developer has hailed the project as its "largest and most ambitious" undertaking thus far, pending planning consent.

Once serving as office spaces for Lloyds Banking Group, these structures have stood vacant for some years. Situated near to Chester Railway Station, they form part of the forthcoming extensive ‘Gateway’ masterplan revamp of the district.

Maintaining their original 1970s architecture, the buildings will be preserved completely, instead of facing demolition. Iain MacLean, the managing director at Blueoak Estates, said: "Blueoak’s ethos centres on building a sustainable legacy and this site and development illustrates this approach. The site location, the design path we have chosen, the materials we will use, and the technologies employed, are centred around a wider sustainable vision."

He added: "We believe that this development will help nurture and cultivate a wider urban community that is undoubtedly building in Chester. We are seeing more city and town centre landscapes reimagined and our buildings must be given a new purpose and direction."

The upcoming development, featuring seven and four-storey structures, is set to be a beacon of sustainability with EPC B rated homes. The properties will boast MEV air extract and KURS systems, supplemented by solar panels atop the buildings, reports Cheshire Live.

In a nod to modern living, the communal facilities are comprehensive: integrated bike storage equipped with chargers, a rooftop garden for residents, on-site cinema room, gym, and workspace designed for breaks. .

Mr MacLean enthused: "We’re incredibly proud of the impact we’re making on the Chester landscape. We are seeing a clear shift in how we live and work that’s resulting in many purpose-built commercial buildings no longer being in use, left abandoned and very much unloved.

"This scheme is our largest and most ambitious scheme in Chester to date. These are incredibly well-known landmark buildings that will now be given a new future and clear purpose.

"The location is one of the best in Chester, and the apartments will be developed as a range of sizes to suit a broad and diverse audience. As ever, the fit out and finish will be of exceptional standard, with lift access and ample private parking."

Don’t miss the latest news and analysis with our regular North West newsletters – sign up here for free.