Deal paves way for apartments plan

A landmark building in Belper is set to be transformed into apartments after being snapped up by a developer.

The three-storey former warehouse in Derby Road was built in the early 1800s and is Grade II-listed.

It was originally used by renowned hosiery company Ward, Brettle and Ward – supplying cloth, hosiery, haberdashery and blankets to London’s drapers for decades and was latterly occupied by motorcycle lubricant manufacturer FUCHS Silkolene.

It has been empty for several years – but has now been sold to AG Group, which recently secured planning permission to convert it into 16 two bedroom luxury apartments.

Chris Wright, director of OMEETO, who secured the deal, said: “I am delighted to have been involved in the sale of this landmark site and look forward to AG Homes starting work on the regeneration redevelopment.

“I live in the local area and have a long-held passion for the restoration of historic buildings so I know just what a positive impact this scheme will have on the local area.”