The former FUCHS site on Derby Road in BelperThe former FUCHS site on Derby Road in Belper
The former FUCHS site on Derby Road in Belper

See inside historic former hosiery warehouse in Derbyshire as it goes up for sale

A historic Grade II-listed former hosiery warehouse in Derbyshire has gone up for sale, with a £650,000 asking price.

The former Ward, Brettle and Ward warehouse in Belper, which was last occupied by the motorcycle lubricant manufacturer FUCHS Silkolene but has been empty for many years, dates back to the early 19th century.

The buildings on Derby Road, near Morrisons, are believed to have been constructed between 1802 and 1834 as a warehouse and stables for the domestic framework knitting industry.

In recent years, they have fallen into dereliction, with a series of thefts leaving them uninhabitable without major work.

There are already plans to convert the premises, located with the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and Belper conservation area, into 24 apartments with two commercial units on the ground floor of the stable block.

Chris Wright, of Omeeto Ltd, which is marketing the property, said: “Having lived in Duffield for over 30 years I am glad to see plans are being put in place to bring forward this gateway site. It presents an excellent conversion opportunity and is primely positioned within Belper.”

These photos show how the site looks now, ahead of its planned regeneration.