Northern Quarter’s Withy Grove Stores added to list of buildings most at risk

The Northern Quarter’s Withy Grove Stores has been put on a “most at risk” list by campaign group SAVE Britain’s Heritage, who fear that the historic building could be in danger of demolition or dereliction.

SAVE have highlighted the fact that it is the only surviving example of Victorian architecture on that street, which was once Manchester’s commercial and industrial centre. It is located around the corner from the Arndale Centre and Printworks building.

There is only one business currently occupying the building, on the ground floor, which has been run by the same family since 1840. The business sells safes and office furniture.

The upper floors of the building seem to be in worse condition than the lower floors. There are even plants growing out of the facade.

The SAVE website reads: . “Fine architectural detailing mark the building out but it is the only survivor of the other Victorian industrial and commercial buildings on this street that have been lost.  Highly functional, this distinctive and handsome building could be turned to a mix of uses.”

The Withy Grove Stores building is one of 70 new buildings in the UK to be added to the list, which includes a total of 1,400. The buildings are nominated by supporters, local campaigners, conservation officers and other heritage professionals.

This is not the first time that SAVE have included a Manchester building on their register. They previously included on the list the Old Trafford Bowling Club pavilion, which was granted listed status last month.

The most recent list includes a whole variety of different buildings, including farmhouses, cinemas and even a Gentlemen’s urinal.