Lincoln-based Lindum Group has completed the refurbishment of 5-7 Market Place, Gainsborough, the former home of the Gainsborough Standard newspaper. It will now become three new flats, with a commercial space on the ground floor.
As part of the scheme, a new shop front has been constructed and installed by Lindum’s joinery team to replicate the Grade II listed property’s original Georgian and Victorian façade.
The new shop front on the West Lindsey District Council-owned building, was built at Lindum Joinery’s workshop in Lincoln. It is made from traditional materials and follows a design by Latham Architects, which matches original designs researched from old photographs and pictures, including by Gainsborough artist Karl Wood.
Wendy Osgodby, Economic Growth Team Leader at West Lindsey District Council, said: “The regeneration of this building forms part of a very exciting programme of development in Gainsborough.”
The building has been part of Gainsborough’s Market Place since the early 18th Century. West Lindsey District Council bought it in 2016 with the restoration to form part of its wider town regeneration plan.
The building will now be brought back to full use as part of a wider programme of town centre renewal, which is being part funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Levelling Up Fund and West Lindsey District Council.
Simon Hope, Lindum Construction Manager, said: “This has definitely been one of the more interesting jobs we’ve done. The difference between when we started and how the building looks now is amazing.
“The combination of the building being empty for years and the leaky roof meant that the inside of the building was very run down, to the point where there were even mushrooms growing on the walls as a result from water cascading into the building for several years.
“The flats are now all up to standard, with new kitchens, walk in showers, and carpets throughout. We are very pleased with how they have turned out, with the historical aspect of the building maintained, while incorporating a modern feel.”
