Historic landmarks in Loughborough face demolition
The transformation of a historically significant site from Loughborough’s industrial heyday appears to be on the horizon.
Recent developments indicate that a substantial portion of ‘The Brush’ may face demolition.
Falcon Works Industrial Estate is planning to remove multiple structures on the Nottingham Road location, including sections of the former Brush plant.
However, they intend to preserve the iconic 1920s edifice described in planning documents as the Brush Building, also known as the Falcon Building, and affectionately referred to by former employees as ’24 Shop.’
Falcon UK MLI Property Unit Trust has submitted an application to the Charnwood Borough Council, seeking planning permission for the demolition of several structures within a portion of the industrial estate.
They also propose the construction of new facilities for general industrial purposes, storage and distribution, as well as research and development.
Brush Traction, once under Brush UK, was acquired by the American firm Wabtec in 2011.
Brush Transformers, still operating as part of Brush UK, continues to be active at the industrial estate.
According to planning documents, the industrial estate remains in current use for manufacturing purposes, although certain sections of the complex are unoccupied and unused.
Multiple companies have established their operations within this facility.
In the previous year, international investor QCP Real Estate reportedly acquired the industrial estate for a sum of £35m.
The applicant has assured that the view of ‘the Brush’ from Loughborough’s train station will remain unaltered.
If the initial phase of the proposed plans is approved, it will involve the subdivision of six separate buildings into 15 units, along with the construction of a new site office and two electrical substations.
Documents submitted on behalf of the applicant read: “The Falcon Works is a locally listed building and represents a non-designated heritage asset. Falcon Works comprises three distinct elements which include the “Brush” building. The Brush building does not fall within the site boundary and is proposed to be retained. The remaining elements of Falcon Works are within the site boundary.”
