Landmark Stalybridge building to be converted

Former George Dean building, Market Street, Stalybridge

STALYBRIDGE will get a new bar, restaurant, event space and barbers after planning permission to convert a familiar building was granted.

The Market Street property, once home to George Dean furniture shop, has stood empty for several years.

But Andrew Fogg, who is based in the town, has been told by Tameside Council he can finally bring it back to life.

Under the proposal, the basement will be transformed into a ‘stylish bar, combining historic charm with modern design.’

A restaurant will be housed on the ground floor, with a private dining lounge on part of the first, with the rest being used an event space and another section housing a barber.

An elevated terrace area will be placed behind the building and documents supporting the scheme told of the benefits the plan will bring.

They state: “The principle of the proposal is entirely beneficial as it will put the currently vacant building to sustainable, active use, securing its future and enhancing its contribution to the conservation area.

“The primary interest and contribution of the building lies in its distinctive front on Market Street, which will remain unchanged except for minor additions of lighting and signage.

“These minimal works will not harm the building’s significance or its contribution to the conservation area.

“The conversion will bring several benefits to the community.

“The new establishment will create jobs in the restaurant, hospitality, and service sectors. It will also attract visitors, boosting local businesses.”

The building may be known to many in Stalybridge as a former furniture store but it was originally a bank.

It was built in 1884 for the Manchester and County, which was founded in Manchester in 1862 but changed its name to County Bank Limited in 1934.

The following year, it merged with the District Bank and later became part of the National Westminster.

And in making the decision to allow the scheme, council officers said: “The proposal does not intend on making any alterations to the front elevation of the application building, albeit cosmetic improvements, such as repainting doors and windows.

“As such, the character of the building and its significance to Market Street would remain, albeit would appear in use, improving the visual amenity of the street scene.

“Overall, the proposed development would aspire to bring economic, environmental and social benefits to the Stalybridge town centre.”

Use of the building has been restricted to between 7am and 1m Monday-Friday, 7am until 2am on Saturday and 9am and 1am on Sunday and Bank Holidays.

The roof terrace can also not be used between 11pm and 7am and no amplified music can be played on or relayed to it.