Everton water tower conversion set to progress

Plans from real estate investor Grey Goose to convert the grade two-listed building on Margaret Street into a short-stay apartment have been recommended for approval by Liverpool City Council. 

The existing 30-metre building, built in 1857 by water engineer Thomas Duncan, would be refurbished into a five-bedroom property used for short stays and events, under the developer’s plans.  

Grey Goose’s proposals also feature the addition of a single-storey recessed flat roof extension, glazed balcony and an outside terraced area offering panoramic views across the city. 

The ground and first floor spaces would be converted into a living and kitchen area with one bedroom. A lift would provide access to the fifth floor, which would comprise a kitchen and living space with four en-suite bedrooms. 

Grey Goose bought the building at auction in February 2019 for £71,000. Mark Architecture has designed the scheme. 

The water tower has remained unused since it was decommissioned in 1977 and the council said it was keen to secure a new long-term use for the building.  

“While in good condition now, long-term vacancy would inevitability lead to deterioration of the listed building,” a report to the council’s planning committee said. 

Loughborough-based Grey Goose is owned by Nilesh Lakha and Rafaelle Russo.

Grey Goose bought the tower last year for £71,000