Leicester's Fenwick building gains Grade II listing

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Oct 17, 2017

A part of the former Fenwick’s Leicester building has received Grade II listed status but approved plans to revamp the site will still go ahead.

The building, located on the corner of Market Street and Belvoir Street, was built in 1880 as Joseph Johnson’s department store. Two major sections have been recognised: the original store and the corner block, built in 1883.

The landmark site has been vacant since Fenwick closed down at the end of March, making almost 100 members of staff redundant. The British department store had been trading in Leicester since 1962 and the outlet was one of the largest in its portfolio.

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Fenwick chairman Mark Fenwick said the closure responded to changing consumer shopping habits and low footfall.

The 106,000 sq ft building was subsequently purchased by developer Aimrok Holdings, which plans to transform the site into four retail stores, a bar, restaurant and gym, and 90 apartments.

According to the Leicester Mercury, approved changes will still be completed following the listing, but Listed Building Consent will now need to be sought.