Former Shropshire nightclub is converted into flats
Work has been completed on converting a former Shropshire nightclub into new homes as part of a scheme costing £636,000.
The project has seen six new apartments created in the former Times Nightclub in Market Drayton High Street.
The former nightclub has been empty for more than five years and had fallen into disrepair.
The building was built in 1874 and has also been used as a bank.
Jean Teichmann, head of development at the Wrekin Housing Trust, said: "The Wrekin Housing Trust and Shropshire Housing Alliance have worked together on a development of six new apartments in Market Drayton High Street.
"The development cost £636,000 with a value to the local economy of over £1.5 million.
"The scheme utilised Empty Homes Funding from the Homes & Communities Agency as well as other grant totalling around £250,000 to complete the transformation of an old nightclub and bank that was derelict.
"The development not only provides six new homes, but is contributing to the local community by refurbishing a town centre building and creating job opportunities through the construction.
"The six one-bedroom flats are now complete and will be home to five individuals and one couple."
Councillor Tim Beckett, mayor of Market Drayton, said: "It is good news that extra housing is being provided and a derelict building is now not an eyesore and I am pleased that the company invested in Market Drayton and not elsewhere.
"The only negative I have received is that since the nightclub went it is one less place in town for people who go out at the weekend as that hasn't been replaced."
Meanwhile, work is continuing by housing and care provider, the Sanctuary Group, to create 18 flats in Stafford Street as part of a £2 million project.
The buildings, located in the heart of the town, have stood derelict for many years but were demolished earlier this year ready for work to begin.
The project, which includes investment from the Homes and Communities Agency, will feature 15 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom apartments.
Sixteen of these will be completely new homes while two will be refurbished properties, with frontages on to Stafford Street. All will be made available on an affordable rental basis.
As well as helping to regenerate the town centre and provide much-needed new homes, company bosses say the scheme has also created job and training opportunities through the construction process.
Work is due to be completed this winter.
