Once bustling with business and people, this beautiful 19th century building will be partially demolished tomorrow.
Built in 1899, the Ogden’s Imperial Tobacco office block is designated Grade II-listed because it is deemed to be an impressive example of late 19th century eclectic Queen Anne style, it has high-quality design and craftsmanship displayed both externally and internally, and the design and decorative detail of the building successfully conveys the company’s original status as one of the largest tobacco manufacturers in the country. The façade includes a landmark clock tower with spire.
Ogden’s Tobacco Company was founded by Thomas Ogden in 1860 when he opened a small retail shop in Park Lane, Liverpool. Within a short time he had established several branches throughout the city and in six years his own factory in St James’ Street. In 1870 additional premises were acquired in Cornwallis Street and by 1890 Ogden’s had six factories in Liverpool. The factory at Boundary Lane was built in 1899 and all operations were concentrated at this site when it opened in 1901. It employed around 2500 Liverpudlians over the years and is a place with fond memories for most before it sadly closed in March 2007.
The former tobacco company’s headquarters in Liverpool, built in the late 19th century, will be converted into apartments under new plans lodged with the city council. It is rumoured more than 130 houses could also be constructed on the site. The developers want to build 70 two-bed, 53 three-bed and ten four-bed properties for private rent, all with private gardens. They are also proposing to redevelop the listed office building into 11 one-bed apartments and eight two-bed apartments, retaining most of the original features.
Local photographer Terry O’Callaghan took a wander around with his camera before the bulldozing begins tomorrow to showcase the eerie abandoned divinity that now lays there. See more of his work here.
