Iconic Wolverhampton store could provide 306 new homes

The iconic Beatties store in Wolverhampton, which has stood empty since 2020, is set to be brought back to life thanks to a transformative redevelopment by architects Corstorphine & Wright, for The Eden Property Group.

Opened by James Beattie in 1877, the 376,000 sq.ft department store has been vacant since House of Fraser left in 2020. Concerns have been raised over the building’s uncertain future and state of disrepair after the previous owners (SSYS) went into receivership in November 2023.

Now, an application has been submitted to Wolverhampton City Council to modify the existing planning permission to allow for an updated scheme which would deliver the same amount of commercial space and 306 new homes.

Key changes include lowering the building height, optimising internal layouts for better efficiency, and focusing on enhancing the public realm and communal amenities to create a vibrant and sustainable urban environment.

Corstorphine & Wright worked closely with the structural engineers, Symmetrys, to ensure the proposals retain the historic fabric and utilise the existing structure and foundation capacity.

David Crosthwait, Director at Corstorphine & Wright said: ‘With a deep respect for the building’s historic features and a commitment to reusing as much of the existing fabric as possible, this sensitive approach minimises further demolition, significantly reduces the need for additional strengthening works and helps to preserve significant embodied carbon.’

The Beatties store has been a landmark in Wolverhampton’s commercial landscape for over a century. Known for its high-quality merchandise and exceptional customer service, the store was acquired by House of Fraser in 2005 but has lain vacant in recent years. In celebration of Beatties’ local significance, the proposed scheme celebrates the key historic architectural features of the former department store.

The convex corner façade will be preserved, and the original concave façade reintroduced to ground level on Victoria Street. The historic arcade route through the building will be reinstated, leading to courtyard terraced gardens and a parkland walk within the site.

Rebecca Platt, Associate at Corstorphine & Wright, said: ‘Reintroduction of the historic elements on Victoria Street opens up the public realm and forms a new focal point for café culture and public events, it’s a key element of the scheme that we are really excited to see realised. We hope this will enhance and revitalise the street, positively stimulating broader regeneration in Wolverhampton. We are looking forward to bringing new life to this beloved landmark, ensuring Beatties remains at the heart of the city centre.’