THE future of an iconic Grade II listed building is now in the hands of the local community.
Knutsford Town Council has launched a consultation on 60 King Street, formerly home to Belle Epoque and recently known as Kings Coffee House.
The building is owned by the council and was home to the former restaurant for 46 years until 2019.
Previous attempts to find a new tenant were unsuccessful.
In 2021, the council changed approach and appointed heritage consultants to lead a major grant bid to secure funds to regenerate and reimagine the building.
The building now needs investment, repair and regeneration.
Residents are now being asked for their views.
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An open day with behind the scenes guided tours is being held on Saturday, April 23, so people can see the building and its grounds.
Town mayor Cllr Stewart Gardiner said “Our vision is for a hybrid community and commercial space that will serve the whole of Knutsford but ensure the building remains financially viable.”
The council has developed a range of ideas as to how the building could be used in the future to both generate income to offset maintenance costs.
The suggestions could benefit the local community, as had originally been intended when the Kings Coffee House was opened by creator Richard Harding Watt.
Residents are now being consulted.
Cllr Gardiner said: “To help us shape our plans we are holding an open consultation, because we want to know your views on how this space should be used in the future.”
A survey is also being mounted to ensure that the building responds to the needs of the Knutsford community by helping identify gaps in service and space provision within the town.
Numbers on the guided tours are limited and pre-booking is required.
Each tour will end with a group discussion on what people have seen and their initial thoughts on how the building could be best used.
The survey and booking form for the guided tours can be found at knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/60KS.
Paper versions of the survey can be collected from Knutsford Library, Knutsford Market Hall and the council offices.
Residents not on the internet can book a tour by calling 01565 653 929.
A short promotional video on the council website is available for anyone unable to attend a tour.
Consultation closes on April 30.
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