PLANNING chiefs at Warrington are studying proposals to demolish a landmark building at Birchwood and replace it with a modern office building and innovation centre.
The scheme, put forward by Cantt Park Ltd, involves the demolition of Rutherford House, in Warrington Road – currently said to be only 15 per cent occupied and challenging to let to new occupiers.
Originally the building was built as part of the nuclear industry development in the area.
The applicants say the proposed development provides an exciting opportunity for new development to come forward on an underutilised employment site.
It would act as headquarters for a new occupier, Sunbelt Rentals – a leader in equipment rentals in the UK, US and Canada, as well as specialist operations in Europe.
The company’s support office has operated successfully from Birchwood for more than 23 years and its current lease will shortly expire. The proposed development would offer an opportunity for the business to remain in Warrington.
Some 440 jobs would be accommodated in the new building.
“The proposal therefore represents a key opportunity to maximise the site’s potential by providing a substantial employment site in place of an underutilised office building.”
Plans have been submitted to the borough council and are now being studied by planning officers.
