THERE are now four companies in the running to regenerate Kingston House - the 1960s eyesore currently housing the disused Fitness Factory gym and the Coopers Emporium pub on the corner of James Street and The Strand in Liverpool.
Liverpool Vision, which is marketing the site on behalf of the Northwest Regional Development Agency, called for potential developers to submit an imaginative scheme.
The urban regeneration company said the project offered the opportunity to create a landmark high-quality office building of between 10 and 12 storeys with retail or leisure uses at street level, and residential units on the upper floors.
The four on the shortlist are:
* Langtree Group
div>
* UK Land and Property
* FT Patten Properties, in partnership with Eric Wright Group
* HBG Properties
Haydock-based Langtree describes itself as an urban renewal specialist and next month begins a mixed-use scheme off Duke Street in Liverpool. Recent projects include Wellington Employment Park at Sandhills, and Liverpool and Venture Point West industrial park at Speke.
UK Land and Property, based in Liverpool, was responsible for the development at Estuary Commerce Park and Boulevard Industry Park, both at Speke.
Wilmslow-based FT Patten Properties has carried out work for clients such as Royal Mail, and Chester City Councils. Its partner, Preston-based Eric Wright Group, has previously developed schemes such as the 1.6m sq ft office site at the Daresbury Park Development, Cheshire, and a 42-apartment scheme in Henry Street, Liverpool, and a Formby school.
HBG Properties is a London-based company. Its portfolio includes retail, healthcare and education projects.
Jim Gill, chief executive of Liverpool Vision, said: "This is the first step in creating a new high quality development."
The shortlist is the first stage of a two-stage selection process. The preferred developer will be appointed before the year's end.
sophiefreeman@dailypost.co.uk
Bookmarks