A FORMER car manufacturer's sprawling Dudley works could be converted into apartments to save the "important" building for future generations.
Fruition Property Developments wants to convert Bean House on Hall Street into 24 apartments.
If plans get the go-ahead, the building, which was built in 1906 and used by Bean Cars from 1919, will be converted into 14 one bedroom and eight two bedroom apartments two studio apartments.
The flats would be rented out by the developer and there would be 11 parking spaces for residents.
Notes to planners state: "The proposal would bring this important structure via extensive and sensitive refurbishment, back into use and provide a much needed social function, i.e. new and affordable housing.
"This would halt the building’s decline and help safeguard its future."
The building's entrance hall. Pic Complete Design Architectural Services
Notes to planners go on to state Bean Cars manufactured cars on an adjoining site from 1919 and light commercial vehicles from 1924.
They state: "Due to financial difficulties, Bean Cars were taken over in 1928 by Hadfield Ltd. but production ceased in 1931.
"In 1933 Hadfield used the building to manufacture parts for other vehicle companies."
They go on: "In later years the building was used as a textiles factory which closed over 25 years ago.
"Since then the building has remained vacant and no maintenance has been undertaken to the structure.
"This has resulted in deterioration to the building, principally window and roof leaks and associated water damage to the roof framework with consequent damage to the interior."
The landing window will be refurbished. Pic Complete Design Architectural Services
The developer says the "only significant features within the building are the main entrance, stairs off the foyer and landing window, which will be refurbished."
The application states the Alan Nuttall Partnership, which has a factory next door, bought the building in 2006 intending to use it, but that this "never materialised due mainly to the scheme being financially unviable and the building has remained empty and unoccupied."
The huge building (Pic: Google)
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