Plans to convert the former Fleetwood radar station into a ‘mega-apartment’

An architect wants to transform a radar station directly on the sea into a “mega-apartment”.

The single-storey building on the Esplanade in Fleetwood is a former naval facility that Iain Garnell plans to convert into a one-bedroom apartment.

Mr Garnell, who runs his own architectural practice Design Three Sixty, bought it earlier this year for £97,000.

In his proposal to the town planners, Garnell said he wanted to “transform a previously unused building into a heritage-listed residential building”.

Mr Garnell said a client alerted him to the sale of the former radar training centre when it was first listed in November.

He said: “When I saw the photos I immediately thought they were incredible.

“It’s a bit dilapidated at the moment, the roof is leaking, but with a little (loving care) it will be restored to its former glory.”

In a heritage statement supporting the planning application, Design Three Sixty said: “We propose to create a unique and considered entity that reflects the historical significance of this building.”

It went on to say that the aim was to “create something that we hope will be an asset to Fleetwood and the surrounding community by transforming a once disused building into a distinctive residential building”.

The statement continues: “To achieve this, we propose the implementation of a design-led concept with high quality materials and finishes to respect and reflect the heritage of this building.”

The striking seafront building served as a radar training base for coastal captains and crews for decades and was described as a “sweet little piece” by art historian and architect Sir Nick Pevsner.

Alan Vincent, deputy leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “This small building is a historic and attractive feature and, together with the historic 1840 lighthouse, is an important testament to Fleetwood’s significant naval past and also demonstrates the history of naval communications in our midst in Lancashire.”

A decision on the plan will be made at a later date.