Property investment firm RW Invest has officially started sales for Grand Union, a new residential development in Liverpool city centre. The project will convert the historic Watson Prickard building on North John Street into 47 modern one-bedroom apartments, with a targeted completion date of winter 2026.
The development, located in the L2 postcode, is positioned to attract investors and residents seeking a prime city centre location. Apartments are now available with prices starting from £239,950, tapping into the strong demand for rental properties in the area.
Key Takeaways
- RW Invest has launched sales for the Grand Union apartment development in Liverpool city centre.
- The project involves converting the former Watson Prickard building into 47 one-bedroom apartments.
- Located at the corner of Cook Street and North John Street (L2), it is close to the business district and Liverpool ONE.
- Apartment prices start at £239,950, with completion expected in winter 2026.
Development Details and Prime Location
The Grand Union development is set to become a notable addition to Liverpool's residential landscape. Occupying the former Watson Prickard building, a structure with distinctive post-war architecture, the project aims to preserve the building's historical character while introducing high-specification modern interiors.
Situated at the corner of Cook Street and North John Street, the location is a significant asset. It falls within the desirable L2 postcode, placing it directly in the heart of the city's commercial and cultural activity. Future residents will be within a short walking distance of several key areas, including Liverpool's main business district, the popular shopping and leisure destination Liverpool ONE, and the vibrant cultural hubs surrounding Mathew Street.
This central positioning is a key factor for both potential residents and investors, offering easy access to employment, entertainment, and transport links. The development's proximity to these landmarks underscores its appeal in a competitive property market.
Apartment Specifications
The project will consist exclusively of 47 one-bedroom apartments, spread across floors one to five of the building. According to RW Invest, each unit is designed with a modern, open-plan layout to maximize space and natural light. A key feature of the development is the commitment to retaining the building's original mid-century architectural elements, particularly its unique façade, which will be carefully preserved.
This blend of old and new is intended to create a unique living experience that respects the building's heritage while providing the comforts and style expected of a contemporary city centre apartment.
An Investment Perspective
RW Invest is marketing Grand Union as a significant opportunity for property investors. The company highlights Liverpool's robust rental market as a key driver for potential returns. With a limited supply of only 47 units in such a central location, strong demand is anticipated.
Liverpool Property Market Snapshot
- Liverpool has experienced consistent growth in rental demand over the past several years.
- City centre postcodes like L1 and L2 are particularly sought after by young professionals and students.
- Regeneration projects continue to boost property values and rental yields across the city.
Michael Gledhill, a director at RW Invest, commented on the project's investment potential. He emphasized the limited number of available apartments and the development's strategic location.
“We believe Grand Union represents a standout opportunity in Liverpool’s robust rental market. With only 47 one-bedroom apartments available in a well connected location, we’re expecting strong investor interest and fast uptake of the available units.”
Gledhill also advised potential buyers to act promptly to secure their preferred unit and capitalize on the initial offering.
“I am encouraging prospective investors to act quickly to access the full choice of available units and secure the best investment for them.”
The starting price of £239,950 positions the apartments in the mid-to-high range for one-bedroom units in the city centre, reflecting the high-specification finish and prime location. The firm projects strong rental yields for buyers, driven by ongoing demand for quality accommodation in the area.
The Watson Prickard Building A Liverpool Landmark
The building set to house the Grand Union apartments is well-known to many Liverpudlians. For decades, it was the home of Watson Prickard, a prestigious gentlemen's outfitters. The store was a city institution, known for its high-quality clothing and traditional service before its closure.
The Legacy of Watson Prickard
Founded in the 19th century, Watson Prickard was a respected name in Liverpool retail for over 100 years. The North John Street store, with its distinctive mid-20th-century architecture, was its flagship location for many years. The building's conversion marks a new chapter in its history, shifting from high-end retail to modern residential use.
The architectural style of the building is described as post-war, a period of significant rebuilding and new design principles in British cities. The decision to preserve the façade is a nod to this history, ensuring that a piece of Liverpool's commercial past remains visible even as the building is repurposed for the 21st century.
This adaptive reuse of a historic building is a common theme in Liverpool's ongoing regeneration. It allows the city to meet the growing demand for housing while retaining the unique character and architectural heritage of its city centre.
Liverpool's Residential Market Continues to Grow
The launch of Grand Union comes at a time of sustained growth and investment in Liverpool's residential sector. The city centre has seen a significant increase in its population over the last two decades, fueled by major regeneration projects like Liverpool ONE and the expansion of the city's universities and business sector.
This population growth has created strong and consistent demand for rental accommodation. Developments that offer modern amenities in central, well-connected locations are particularly attractive to the city's growing demographic of young professionals.
With a completion date set for winter 2026, the Grand Union project is timed to enter the market as this demand is expected to continue. The focus on one-bedroom apartments aligns with market trends, which show a high demand for smaller units suitable for single occupants and couples living and working in the city.