A substantial three storey premises constructed in 1878 by renowned architect Charles Lynam to serve as a public library. The property was given Grade II Listed status in 1991 and is described by the Listed Building Society as follows…
Library, purpose-built as library and Shakespeare Institute in 1878. By Charles Lynam. Brick with stone dressings, enriched with tiled panels and mosaics. 2-storeyed over a basement, 5 bays, stepped in plan. Red brick to basement, then white brick above, with rubbed red brick pilasters and architraves to windows in the advanced 3-bay section to the SW. 3 oculi, with tiled panels over, and mosaic depicting Shakespeare in the central panel. Stone band embellished with motifs, and continuous band of casement windows immediately below the overhanging eaves. Doorway in recessed bay to NE with terracotta entablature and mosaic panel over with the date and foundation details. Tiled panels continue round side elevations, and depict flowers in urns, now very faded. Gable end stacks.
The property is accessed by two principal entrances, via steps leading down to the lower ground floor with the main entrance to the ground floor approached via steps leading up from the pavement. Internally, there are two principal open plan areas to the lower ground and ground floor levels with a balcony area flanking the perimeter walls of the main hall overlooking the ground floor, together with a number of additional ancillary rooms throughout.
Location
The property is prominently located in the centre of Stoke, immediately opposite the Sainsburys supermarket and adjacent to a range of mixed use commercial premises. There are a number of public car parks within 50 yards. Stoke town centre has experienced something of a revival since Staffordshire University amalgamated its Stafford campus into the Stoke campus, which has resulted in the development of new student accommodation, significantly increasing the population of the town.
Accommodation
Lower Ground Floor
A range of ancillary rooms to include toilets and the main hall (1,338 sq ft)
2,084 sq ft
Ground Floor
Imposing entrance hall, together with bar area (374 sq ft) and main hall (1,324 sq ft).
2,028 sq ft
First Floor
Balcony area (883 sq ft) plus function room (497 sq ft) and toilets.
1,461 sq ft
Total GIA: 5,573 sq ft
Note: externally there is an area of land that adjoins part of the northern boundary of the site that is currently owned by the adjacent building and can be separately purchased for an agreed sum of £2,000. This area of land would facilitate an additional access point, which may be useful depending on the future use of the building.
Terms
Available freehold, subject contract and with vacant possession upon completion.