Front of former Tyrers building boarded up and construction work is due to begin next week

The Luxor Group, purchased the site at the end of last year and plan to convert the upper floors into one and two-bedroom luxury apartments while retaining the basement and ground floor space for retail.

The entrance of the iconic Bridge Street building was boarded up yesterday, Monday, August 21 for work to take place.

Last week Star readers expressed growing concerns about the appearance of the entrance, where a collection of bedding and clothing belonging to rough sleepers had built up.

Paul Nicholson, managing director of Luxor Group, said: “On Monday in conjunction with St Helens Council and the police, we have boarded up the entrance to Tyrers to secure the site ready for our complete team to commence work next week.

“We have been carrying out some preparatory works to allow for a smooth start to the project.

“We are 100 per cent committed to the redevelopment of Tyrers and this step ensures the safety of the site and our workmen during the construction process.

“Our workmen are on site this week carrying out further security checks ready for our team to be on site full-time starting next week.

“The Teardrops outreach team and Kristina from our team are working tirelessly to help the homeless and we are working together to find solutions to help the people on St Helens’ streets.”

Earlier this week it was announced that Kristina Metcalf, head of business development at the luxury property developing firm will now represent Teardrops, a homeless support charity operating in the borough and the Liverpool city region.

The Luxor Group have also recently taken over Claughton House on the corner of Claughton Street and Barrow Street, with plans to turn it into studios and apartments.