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Plans to transform the historic Coopers Building\u2019s upper floors into a high-rise hotel move forward, spotlighting ongoing regeneration of Liverpool\u2019s genteel shopping era landmarks and boosting the city\u2019s visitor economy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
A prominent Liverpool building from the “era of genteel shopping” is set to receive a new lease of life, as plans have been submitted to transform its vacant upper floors into a high-rise hotel. The Coopers Building, located above the River Island store on Church Street, has a rich history dating back to 1895 when it first opened as a department store specialising in quality foods, tea, coffee, exotic fruits, and fine wines.<\/p>\n
The building’s grand exterior, designed by the Scottish architect Gerald de Courcy Fraser in 1914, reflects its heritage as a key part of Liverpool\u2019s commercial and social fabric during a period of bustling business activity. The former Cooper & Co store was well-known not only for its extensive stock but also for its caf\u00e9, which could seat over 900 people, and for hosting jazz-filled wedding receptions. Its ornate interiors and use of live window displays made it a celebrated up-market shopping destination. Despite its former glory, the business closed in 1972 amid the rise of supermarkets and changing retail habits, leaving the upper floors of the building vacant.<\/p>\n
The current redevelopment proposal by Amar Seth of Seth Hotel Ltd seeks to convert the third to sixth floors into hotel rooms, with the addition of a new seventh floor comprising amenity space and a restaurant open to both hotel guests and the public. This design aims to retain the building\u2019s vernacular architectural characteristics and keep the existing facade intact, honouring the site\u2019s prominent position and historical significance. The development would result in approximately 4,456 square meters of gross internal floor area spread over seven floors, including new lobby space on the lower floors.<\/p>\n
This hotel plan follows earlier initiatives to revive the building’s upper floors, including a previous application to convert them into 80 residential units, which was started but not completed. More recently, Dorset Projects secured planning consent to transform these floors into 77 serviced apartments featuring studios and one-bedroom units, alongside communal facilities such as a reception and fitness room. These various proposals underscore a strong interest in revitalising the historic Coopers Building to contribute meaningfully to Liverpool\u2019s visitor economy and tourism sector.<\/p>\n
Structural work is also underway to preserve and maintain the building\u2019s integrity. Williams Tarr has been awarded a contract to carry out extensive repairs and refurbishment, including masonry and steel frame restoration and roof structure maintenance, ensuring the building remains safe and sustainable for future use.<\/p>\n
The redevelopment of the Coopers Building aligns with broader regeneration efforts in Liverpool city centre, where historic structures are being adapted for modern commercial and residential uses. Experts suggest these initiatives not only breathe new life into architectural landmarks but also help reinforce the city\u2019s appeal as a destination for visitors and locals alike.<\/p>\n