WORK has started to restore one of the town's historic buildings back to its former glory.

The former Burton store on Witton Street had been falling into disrepair for a number of years, with its future even more uncertain after the collapse of the Arcadia Group last year.

Back in October, local councillor Sam Naylor questioned why the building was being left to rot, with Arcadia refusing to take part in the town's generous Townscape Heritage Scheme.

READ> Northwich councillor says town's Burton store deteriorating

More than £1 million has been available for businesses to take advantage of as part of the project, which aims to carry out the repair and restoration of iconic town centre premises.

However, a Cheshire-based family property company has now bought the building and already begun work on repairing and decorating it with the aim of attracting a new tenant to further enhance the area.

They’re also in talks with both Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Townscape Heritage Scheme about restoring the property’s frontage to its original 1909 appearance.

A spokesperson from the firm has outlined why they have purchased the building and also revealed their aspirations for playing a part in Northwich’s post-pandemic recovery.

"We identified the opportunity of a neglected building in poor repair with a tenant who was about to cease trading and felt it was an exciting time to invest and make a small contribution to a wonderful community," they said.

"We also felt that Northwich has a positive future and is a vibrant market town, and with the recent and exciting additions of the Paradox and Temple cafes, we feel that the area has a new vibe which we want to add to.

"We have had a few enquiries from both local and national occupiers but we feel that this is a unique opportunity.

"It’s a magnificent functional space and we would like to find a tenant or tenants who will enhance the area and add to the town centre’s post-covid renaissance."

News of the development has been welcomed by Northwich BID Project Manager Adam Gerrard who can’t wait to see the building restored and occupied.

"This is great news for the town centre and I can’t wait to see the works progressing to hopefully restore the building to its former glory.

"Both the company’s plan for the building and ethos are very positive, so we’re excited to see their ideas come to fruition and hopefully be able to welcome a new business or businesses into our town centre community very soon."