THE University of Chester has applied for planning permission for a further phase of its bold move into Warrington town centre.
Warrington Borough Council planning chiefs are studying proposals to change the use of the former Merseybank House office building in Barbauld Street.
Permission has already been granted for the university to use a building in Time Square for educational purposes as part of its move from its Padgate Campus.
Now permission is being sought for the three-storey office building, which has been re-named the Sarah Parker Remond Building after the prominent anti-slavery and women’s rights campaigner from America who gave a series of lectures in Warrington in the 1800s.
The university’s move is part of a wider initiative to improve its presence in the town centre and to improve accessibility.
The project comprises an interior fit-out of the three-storey building which will allow students, staff and the wider community access to a range of facilities including learning spaces, simulation space, flexible office accommodation and informal social lounge spaces which are to be supported by a reception and University information point. There will also be a landscaped area outside the building.
The change of use will result in a building of educational significance which will transform the delivery of learning to the student cohort and also benefit a wider network of education organisations across the borough, according to the university.
It is expected that the Padgate Campus site will be redeveloped for housing.
