Business-owners and community organisations are being invited to submit plans to help safeguard an iconic building in Knutsford.
The town council is calling for detailed proposals which set out how the Grade II* listed building at 60 King Street could be used.
The building has been vacant since 2019, and Knutsford Town Council say it offers a unique opportunity for a range of uses in the centre of Knutsford.
The council has been looking into the possibility of securing heritage lottery funding to renovate the building in one go, however it was concluded the level of investment required to develop a sufficiently competitive bid made this unfeasible.
Town mayor, Cllr Mike Houghton said: “The town council recognises the importance of this incredible building and will carefully consider all proposals received, seeking to find the best future for the building for Knutsford”
“It is important to remember that this is a Grade II* listed building meaning the integrity of the property will always be protected adding, as it does, so significantly to the town’s unique character”
At a meeting on 10th January, the town council voted to invite proposals for a range of uses to help come up with a plan for the future of the building.
Options for the building could include community led schemes or even the sale of the freehold.
The town council said that any community led proposals should provide a detailed plan of how the building will be used and include a business case for how the building will be operated, how repairs would be funded and phased, the personnel involved in the project and a project timeline and action plan.
The council confirmed it would also consider offers for the purchase of the freehold of the building.
With a guide price of £1.1m, it says this would be a rare opportunity to own a prestigious landmark building.
Any proposals for the purchase should include a proposed purchase price, an overview of proposed alterations and proposed use for the building and how it will support Knutsford town centre.
The council is also open to considering other proposals, including lettings.
All proposals must be submitted by 4pm on 10th March and will be considered at a special Town Council meeting at the end of March.
Viewings of the building for those preparing a proposal will be held on Friday 27th January (10am to 4pm).
Booking is required and a slot can be booked by emailing townclerk@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk with a preferred time.
More information on submissions is available at: www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/60ks
