Wirral Council has ruled that prior approval is required for the demolition of Dominick House in Liscard, effectively halting any immediate timeline for tearing down the derelict office block. The decision marks another twist in the long-running debate over the future of the site, which has been a topic of contention for years.
Background of the Dominick House Saga
The future of the Wirral town centre site has been hotly debated, with opinions split between demolition and refurbishment. While many in the community have called for the building to be torn down, a Manchester-based developer recently proposed converting it into a high-quality apartment block. However, an application was submitted to Wirral Council seeking to determine whether approval would be needed to demolish the 1960s-built former government office building.
Documents within the application claimed demolition could start as soon as August 10, with the site potentially becoming a car park afterward. However, the council's planning department has now concluded that prior approval is necessary, putting the brakes on any such timeline.
Council Report Highlights Insufficient Detail
A council report into the application determined that insufficient detail regarding the method of demolition and potential site impacts were included in the submitted plans. The report explains that the council received an objection to the application, which raised concerns about noise, dust, and disturbance resulting from the demolition of the five-storey building.
The building has fallen into a state of disrepair since its closure in 2018. Currently, Prospect Estates Ltd owns the leasehold of the building, while Wirral Council owns the freehold. However, the council's Economy Regeneration & Housing Committee last week approved funding to acquire the leasehold for the site.
Community and Developer Reactions
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Some residents have expressed relief that the process will be more carefully scrutinized, while others are frustrated by further delays. The developer has not yet commented on the council's ruling.
According to a council spokesperson, "The planning department's conclusion ensures that any demolition will be carried out safely and with minimal impact on the surrounding area. We are committed to working with all parties to find the best solution for the site."
