Property development company buys HMP Shrewsbury
HMP Shrewsbury is to be transformed into a mix of residential, office and studio accommodation, The Ministry of Justice has confirmed today.
Property developers, The Osborne Group is renowned for undertaking a large number of high-quality development projects, many of which involve both historic buildings and council partnerships, with an emphasis on mixed use environments. Projects include the regeneration of Oxford Castle, development of the country’s only Thermal Spa Hotel, and the regeneration of Armagh Gaol in Northern Ireland.
Shrewsbury MP, Daniel Kawczynski said:
“The Osborne Group has considerable experience of working with historic buildings and I understand that this was a factor that was considered by my colleagues at the Ministry of Justice when they selected the preferred buyer. I am confident that they will undertake the redevelopment of this iconic building to the highest standard and in a way that will preserve the history of its former use.
“The mixed use will complement the surrounding environment as well as provide employment opportunities for Shrewsbury. With no significant retail use planned for the site, I am confident that the development will not impact on trade within Shrewsbury’s existing shopping areas, which I am pleased about.
“I have received many requests from residents wishing to look around the former prison prior to it being developed. I hope that the new owners may be amenable to providing access to the public in some way and I will shortly be having those conversations with them.”
Leaders of Shropshire Council have expressed their delight and support for the new owners of the Dana prison building in Shrewsbury.
The council has made a firm commitment to ensure the development of the Dana prison reflects the vision for Shrewsbury.
Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council, and Shropshire Council’s chief executive Clive Wright, will be meeting for the first time with Trevor Osborne on Thursday 4 December 2014 to discuss Trevor’s plans and ideas for the Dana. The meeting on will focus on how the council’s planning, economic development and conservation specialists can work closely with The Osborne Group to ensure the Shrewsbury Vision is delivered.
Council Leader, Keith Barrow commented:
“We are delighted that such a prestigious company has bought the Dana, and will work closely with Trevor to maximise the economic growth potential of the site. The Osborne Group has a great track record of converting highly sensitive heritage buildings to high end uses. We appreciate how important the site is to Shrewsbury and to delivering the Shrewsbury Vision, and look forward to working with Trevor, who is a renowned expert in the field of buildings of architectural and historic interest.”
Post by shropshirelive.com.
