A legendary Liverpool recording studios which was used by stars such as Echo and the Bunnymen, The Zutons, Atomic Kitten and Lou Reed has been put up on the market.
Crash Rehearsal Studios was at the heart of the city’s music scene since it opened its doors in 1987. It was known in the industry as a venue for talent spotting and played a key role in nurturing the careers of some of the city’s best-known bands.
Imperial Warehouses, as the building was previously known, was constructed in 1878 to store fruit and vegetables. It also featured in the 2001 blockbuster film 51st State.
Following the closure of the studios in 2018, planners last year granted consent for its conversion into a 34-unit aparthotel with ground-floor bar and restaurant and basement recording studios. The plans also included a two-storey extension and a musical ‘walk of fame’ in Davies Street, the narrow cobbled street alongside it.
Surveyors Fletcher Bond are now inviting offers for the four-storey property, which lies just off Stanley Street close to the main shopping area, the Met Quarter, and comprises around 14,162 sq ft of floorspace.
Rory Dillon, Managing Director of Fletcher Bond, said: “Imperial Warehouses is one of Liverpool’s hidden gems with an amazing history and many original features. It is in a prime city centre location and not only has permission for conversion to an aparthotel but also has previous consent for use as a gym.
“However because of its large, flexible floorplates, it would suit a whole range of other uses – from offices, a youth hostel or student accommodation to a nightclub or a pop-up leisure venue. It’s an exciting opportunity for a new owner to give this iconic building a new lease of life.”
