Bowker Sadler Architecture collaborated with Stockport Heritage Planners and THT Developments Ltd to convert this iconic Grade II Listed building at the heart of Stockport into 11 affordable apartments and a ground floor restaurant.

Left empty over ten years and subject to rot through the ravages of weather and vandalism, the building was in a poor state when we started work, which required a detailed strategy for the careful restoration of the old pub hotel to its former glory, as a fine example of the early Edwardian Arts & Crafts Movement of the 1900’s.

Many features, both inside and out, had to be retained, including the grand staircase and the stained glass windows, and capping it all, the copper dome and flagstaff.

Working closely with specialist heritage companies, the dome was stripped, the timber frame re-made and re-coppered, all the stained glass windows were removed taken to the works and repaired using traditional lead canes and fragments of original glass.

“I found Bowker Sadler to be very pro-active throughout the project and was continually impressed with the service provided and attention to detail.” Sean Dooley, Project Manager Trafford Housing Trust

“The completion of the White Lion is another exciting project contributing to Stockport’s vibrancy and complements our ambitious plans for the town centre like investment in the Underbanks, improvements to Merseyway shopping centre and the new transport interchange…Creating new homes to the quality that has been achieved in the White Lion is vital to establish the town centre as a location of choice in South Manchester, and breathes new life in to what was formerly a disused building. This historic building looks fantastic and has been given the respect it deserves in its new life as luxury apartments…Alongside the apartments, the restoration works to the ground floor and basement have created an ideal location for a food and beverage offer, which we hope to bring forward later this year.” Cllr David Meller, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council

Winner: Conservation & Regeneration Award at the North West Regional Construction Awards 2020:

“The winner of this award is a beautiful restoration with attention to preserving or reinstating as much in the way of original features as possible, while balancing the need for modern accommodation. The blend of old and new is particularly impressive, as is the restoration of the old staircase.
Furthermore, the use of heritage specialists, who in themselves were engaging apprentices, makes this submission particularly stand out in that there was also a focus on ensuring those skills continue into the future.” Gwen Beeken, NWRCA Judge and Managing Director OSCO Homes and Procure Plus

Winner: Best Change of Use of an Existing Building at the LABC North West Region Awards 2020.

Shortlisted: Best Social or Affordable New Housing Development at the LABC North West Region Awards 2020.