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February 4, 2015

Wirral residents attempt to save Andrew Gibson House


A campaign is under way seeking 4,000 signatures in an attempt to save Andrew Gibson House located in Wirral. The grand Edwardian home is up for demolition, but locals believe this "Mersey Maritime monument to Britain's mariners and their widows" could be put to good use once again.

As to why the house is worth saving, the campaign blurb does an excellent job of explaining:

"The imposing brick and stone Andrew Gibson House was completed in 1906 to provide a sanctuary for the widows of elderly sailors and men lost at sea, and was the gift of a wealthy Liverpool cotton merchant.

Built by individual philanthropy and maintained by the collective contributions of individual Union members, the building represents a unique piece of Britain's maritime and welfare history.
"

Apparently permission has already been given by the local authority to turn the beautiful building into apartments, but there have been no takers, that's even considering the building is unlisted meaning much less restrictive development rules. Owners Nautilus state they've tried for a decade to repurpose it, but the work involved has turned prospective developers away.

If you would like to support the campaign head on over to the 38degrees website.

Source: Liverpool Echo

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