Stroud’s ‘ugliest building’, Tricorn House, has been empty and derelict for many years. Its prominent position at a major road junction ensures everyone, residents and visitors alike, get a regular view of this monstrosity.
© Photo copyright David Gruar and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
There have been occasional campaigns for some time to establish a new use for the building, or to get it demolished and the site redeveloped, but so far none has succeeded. The recent HLF grant to restore the adjoining canal has raised the stakes further – Stroud should be able to be proud of both road and canal frontages.
So it is encouraging to learn that local firm Ecotricity have come up with plans for the site, planning to demolish it and build a new base for the successful green energy company.
In parallel with the Ecotricity proposals the current owners, who have been responsible for the empty derelict building for over 10 years without any action, have submitted plans of their own, keeping the building and converting it to residential use.
However Stroud District Council seem to be weary of the current situation and current owner’s inaction, and are proposing to make a Compulsory Purchase Order for the property, with the aim of working with Ecotricity afterwards.
A Public Inquiry into the conflicting proposals was held on July 14 2009. The District Council CPO document is available for viewing here.
Stroud Civic Society gave evidence to the Inquiry. Our submission is available (in pdf format) here.