Pender Place and Mercury House: The Development Brief (5)

Framework for proposed land uses

This area currently contains Mercury House and abuts the Maltacom Exchange Building.

Mercury House 1

The scheduled part of Mercury House is to be retained and restored. The unattractive additions at the rear, and all the outbuildings are to be demolished. MEPA's Integral Heritage Management Team shall issue the terms of reference for all associated works. While Mercury House will stand along, the design of the whole area should highlight it as a focal point and ensure good views of its attractive front elevation.

Mercury House 2

This area will contain a medium rise building, designed to define the northwest corner of the site, and to create an attractive space between it and Mercury House.

The building will contain commercial uses. Retail uses will be permitted at the ground floor, with the remainder of the building being suitable for offices. If considered commercially viable, apartments and penthouses and / or a restaurant can be provided on the top floors.

The Grade 1 'Cold War' chambers, tunnels, shafts and access point in this location shall be fully preserved and safeguarded. Potentially they could be used as a cultural attraction. Mepa's Integrated Heritage Management Team will issue terms of reference for monitoring during the construction period.