Acorn Property Group and Wessex Investors are to showcase their plans for the regeneration of the Oliver Buildings in Barnstaple with a public exhibition.

Occupying an important site on the south bank of the River Taw and derelict for nearly 10 years, the Grade II listed former Shapland and Petter furniture factory will be given a new lease of life as homes and commercial space.

The joint venture partners have worked with North Devon District Council, Historic England, a design review panel and local stakeholders to draw up suitable proposals for the historic building together with a new build development.

The public will be able to view the plans at the Guildhall, Barnstaple between 10.30 and 2 pm on 1 December 2018.

Following the public consultation, a planning application is expected to be submitted with a start on site as soon as possible during 2019, subject to the necessary approvals.

Andrew Strathdee, Development Director for Acorn said: “Following a comprehensive consultation process and our own technical analysis, we have a scheme with a balanced mix of uses and sound design and construction plan needed to successfully regenerate and convert the existing buildings. We are now ready to unveil our exciting proposals for the site and look forward to hearing what the public think.”

Wessex is a well-known south west focused developer, and has been responsible for the regeneration of the Anchorwood site since the project commenced in 2011.