Surrey Heath Borough Council will discuss options for Camberley’s former House of Fraser building on Tuesday 13 February 2024.
The Executive meeting will consider providing budget to facilitate enabling works to make the building safe and secure as well as allow the completion of survey work to help develop options for the best way forward for the building.
The proposed enabling works will prioritise the removal of asbestos, detailed inspection of the roof, internal mechanical and electrical systems, general surveying and repairs to the roof.
The council is currently examining the best option for the building including modernisation and refurbishment, this could include improved retail and hospitality areas, office accommodation, community facilities and residential.
Once the asbestos is clear from the building, conceptual plans and designs, with cost estimates, will be developed to select the best option.
Councillor Shaun Macdonald, Leader of Surrey Heath Borough Council said:
“As the owners of this building, we need to conduct important and necessary works to ensure its future is viable and safe, despite the substantial cost to the council tax payer.
“The new council knows that this building at the centre of the town centre cannot be left to deteriorate indefinitely.
“We want to create spaces within the town that the residents and visitors to Camberley will all appreciate, supporting a strong economy and continuing to stimulate the regeneration of Camberley.
“It is important that we take time to assess the cost and benefits of different options before we make a final decision on any final investment.”
The works on House of Fraser form part of the wider Camberley town centre regeneration building on the works already completed including the refurbishment of The Square shopping centre, extensive improvements to The High Street, Knoll Walk and Princess Way, the build of the stunning new leisure centre Places Leisure Camberley and former office building, Ashwood House, transformed into 116 luxury apartments.
Details of the House of Fraser purchase in 2017 and its financial performance.
Access the Agenda of the Executive meeting of 13 February 2024, and read more details on the former House of Fraser building item, and other items to be discussed.
Update - 14 February 2024
At the Executive meeting of 13 February 2024, the Executive resolved that, subject to the agreement of the budget by the Full Council, enabling works be undertaken to make the building safe and secure, and allow the completion of survey work to help develop options for the best way forward for the building.
It was recommended to Full Council that the relevant capital bid be approved to undertake this work.
You can read more on the 13 February 2024 Executive meeting webpage