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Liscard's empty Dominick House has hit another setback after demolition plans were put on hold.
We previously reported that the empty office block could be gone as early as August, with plans being submitted in June to demolish it.
The building has divided opinion since it closed in 2018. Many have called for its closure, while others have insisted on giving the 1960s building a makeover. According to Birkenhead News, a Manchester developer revealed plans to turn the building into apartments rather than destroy it.
Unfortunately, it seems the likelihood of the site being cleared this summer is low.
An application was submitted to Wirral Council to conclude if approval was needed before the building could be demolished. Documents previously set August as a start date for the work - specifically August 10 - with the area being used as a car park temporarily.
However, the council has ruled that prior approval is needed before demolition can occur, so the proposed demolition date will not be met.
Planning officers stated that the application did not include detailed information on how the building would be demolished or how the impact on the surrounding area would be dealt with. The council also cited concerns over noise, dust and local disruption as reasons for the plans to be held back.
Prospect Estates Ltd currently holds the leasehold; Wirral Council owns the freehold.
Last week, the council's Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee approved funding to buy the leasehold, a move that could give the authority greater control over the site's future.
It is important to note that demolition hasn't been ruled out; it just means that the proccess for destroying the building is longer, and the debate over what should happen to it continues.
