Historic Wolverhampton buildings to be restored thanks to scheme
HISTORIC buildings in the heart of Wolverhampton are set to be restored to their former glory thanks to a multi-million pound cash boost.
Work has started to renovate the pair of Grade II listed properties in Wolverhampton as part of a scheme to enhance Queen Street.
It comes as part of Wolverhampton council's vision to breathe life back into some of the most significant streets in the city's history.
Deputy leader Councillor Peter Bilson, who is also cabinet member for city assets and housing, said: "We have been working closely with the property owners, and our project partners, to develop proposals.
"This will help breathe new life into the area and its businesses, while at the same time staying true to the history of these wonderful buildings in our city.
"As a council, preserving the rich heritage and conservation areas in the city is as important to our regeneration plans as the millions of pounds being invested in new development."
The late-Georgian townhouses at 47 and 48 Queen Street are the first to be revamped as part of the Queen Street Gateway Townscape Heritage Scheme.
A £864,100 grant towards the scheme was awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund to help restore historic buildings in the street.
Owners of the buildings have invested £1.1 million, while Wolverhampton council has pledged £250,000 to the project.
The two properties - a solicitors' firm and a building due to be converted into flats - currently being renovated will benefit from just under £100,000 of the cash, with works expected to be completed by the summer.
Contractors are planning to begin work at 45 Queen Street in May after the building - which will be used as office space to rent - received a £65,050 grant.
The works, which are being carried out by Midland Conservation Ltd, will include repairs to the external envelopes including re-slating, making good chimney stacks, new leadwork, new gutters and downpipes.
It will also feature the overhaul and replacement of windows, as well as renovating brickwork, stone detailing, the front walls and railings.
The council is working with a number of organisations and groups to deliver the scheme in Queen Street, which is home to many listed buildings dating back to the early 19th century.
Queen Street, which was laid in the late 18th century, featured the town's first dispensary providing medical care for the poor, the first free library and the assembly rooms which were later converted into the County Court.
