Vacant Hartlepool Listed Former Department Store To Become Virtual Reality Hub

The former site of the North Eastern Co-Operative Society Department Store on Park Road in Hartlepool is set to be transformed into a virtual reality haven thanks to a technologically-driven listed building restoration and a not for profit organisation.

NEVR Labs, A computer technology studio and virtual reality hub has requested planning permission with the help of Alice House Hospice to open In the vacant Unit C of what is known as Park Tower.

Whilst the former department store is a Grade II listed building, council planning leads determined that the proposals would not cause any damage to the building, the Stranton Conservation Area where it is based or the local streets.

This will allow the centre, set to be used for training, education and work in computer technology and virtual reality, to open, with all of the revenue generated going to Alice House Hospice, a charity that helps people and families affected by life-limiting illnesses.

NEVR labs have offered a range of services, including virtual reality education and team-building exercises, virtual fitness, esports equipment and training, virtual reality arcade games and escape rooms.

The council agreed to the proposals on the rationale that it would benefit the community far more than it affects it, the proposed change of use is acceptable and would not affect the building, and it would benefit the long term prospects of the vacant building.

It would also provide investment to the local area and a unique attraction that takes advantage of protected listing building aesthetics and state-of-the-art technology.