Transforming Nuneaton - work progresses on former COOP building

Demolition work is commencing on the former COOP Department store building in Queens Road, Nuneaton.

The keys to the property have been handed over to the Council’s demolition contractor who will commence stripping out works prior to the partial demolition of the former COOP Department store.  The parts to be demolished are physically or economically obsolete and have little heritage value.

Those parts of the building to be retained include the Art Deco fronted building to Queens Road, 16 Abbey Street and the former COOP Office building and shops.The New Century Way shops and offices will also be retained whilst longer term development opportunities are explored.

Over the next couple of weeks we will see protective hoardings being erected around the site, stripping out works completed and preparation for demolition undertaken.

The former COOP Department store was bought by Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council in January 2019, with Warwickshire County Council subsequently agreeing to contribute to the cost.

Cllr Julie Jackson, Leader of the Borough Council said:

“I am delighted with the progress that’s been made since we purchased this site four months ago - we’ve drawn up the plans, gained the necessary permissions to do the demolition, removed the asbestos and now we are ready for the demolition. We certainly haven’t hung around!

“It is an exciting time in the town’s history - we’re making way for new development that will take Nuneaton forward on its journey of transformation.”

Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Leader of the County Council said:

“This is yet another positive step forward for the Transforming Nuneaton programme.

“The partial demolition of the building will open up new opportunities for development to meet the needs of a modern town. It is wonderful to see things progressing so quickly.”

Sean Farnell, a board director at the CWLEP, said:

“This will be a key development in the Transforming Nuneaton programme to create a vibrant, attractive and prosperous town and it is excellent news that progress is being made.

“The Local Growth Fund, which is contributing to the wider Transforming Nuneaton scheme, is focused on boosting the economy, support businesses and create jobs and this scheme highlights the benefits of partnership working.”