Residents move into restored Wallasey landmark

Andrew Gibson House on the Wallasey waterfront was formerly a home for the widows of merchant seamen, but former owners Nautilus Welfare found the Victorian mansion unsuitable for the living needs of the modern age.

The charity, which provides accommodation for retired seafarers on the adjacent Mariners Park site, was resigned to demolishing the heritage building following numerous attempts to find either a buyer or a redevelopment option.

Following a campaign by local Councillors and Save Britain’s Heritage, Wirral-based development company, Prospect Capital stepped forward with a bold plan to restore the building as part of a comprehensive redevelopment of the site overlooking the Mersey.

(right to left) - Charlie Blackwell (Prospect Capital), Cllr James Laing, Cllr Janette Williamson, Craig Blackwell (Prospect Capital), Cllr Daisy Kenny (Image: Jon Egan)

Prospect Capital MD, Craig Blackwell said: “This has been a long road with many complications and challenges, but after five years, we’re delighted that we have finally completed the restoration and have residents moving into their new homes in this magnificent building.”

The project faced a number of delays during planning including a wait of over 18 months to approve a footpath diversion when the statutory consultation had to be rerun due to the Covid 19 pandemic.

Mr Blackwell added: “It required some lateral thinking and a great deal of support from Wirral Council officers, especially David Ball, to come up with a solution that delivered a viable scheme that allowed us to restore and convert Andrew Gibson House to its former glory.

Charlie Blackwell, Cllr Janette Williamson, Craig Blackwell, Cllr Daisy Kenny (Image: Jon Egan)

“In the first instance, it was the campaigning efforts of Cllr Janette Williamson and her colleagues that helped to stop potential demolition. Janette has supported us all the way, and I’m delighted she and her colleagues  are joining us today to welcome the first residents on site.”

Following the completion of the restoration of Andrew Gibson House, work on the next phase of the project will commence in the New Year. The scheme will comprise three new build apartment blocks, including 26 affordable units.   

Cllr Janette Williamson said: “I am delighted to see Andrew Gibson House restored and now being enjoyed by its new residents.

“We always believed that with enough imagination and effort, this important piece of Wirral heritage could be saved.

“Thanks to the efforts of Prospect Capital, Nautilus Welfare and officers at Wirral Council, we found a solution and it’s brilliant seeing it delivered.”