The Category B listed Willison House at 56 Barrack Street dates back to 1934. This distinctive Art-Deco building was erected in the shadow of the massive Ward Mills and served as the retail premises of John L Robertson Ltd, house furnishers, until its abandonment about ten years ago.
After at least one false start, fresh plans involving the retention of the Barrack Street and Willison Street faience facades have been made. Edinburgh-based property firm KR Developments seeks to use the site for purpose-built student accommodation. You can view and participate in the public consultation (which closes on 21 April 2022) here.
Our planning group is examining the proposals, which appear to involve the addition of a tall masonry extension and ‘glass box’, similar to the nearby Dundee House.