The Briscoe’s Building In Central Invers – What Next?

Will this be the next demolition job in central Invers?

This after a fire devastated part of the old Pall Mall Arcade on the corner of Dee and Spey St’s in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

6 people were treated at the scene with one being taken to hospital  due to the fire.

Not only did the fire cause significant damage but these people and others lost their homes and possessions in the early morning blaze. Some business’s have also been forced to relocate due to the fire.

It’s been reported that the fire burnt through a lot of timber inside the building. Was this old timber or new timber used in creating homes within an old large concrete structure.

The blaze looked to be ferocious but at time of writing it’s not clear the extent of damage and if it’s repairable. This is probably where the insurers and the current owners interests come in.

City mayor Nobby Clark speaking on whatsoninvers said the fire raised the issue of the number of buildings in the city with something on the ground floor but nothing on floors above.

Nobby Clark says the city council had been working with the Fire Service and that building had recently been reviewed by the Council on how it complies with the different regulations.

He says it certainly changes when you start putting people in there and if you make it residential it certainly lifts the bar.

Mayor Clark says he understands that the residents were able to be there.

He says its way to early to early to say if the old building is fixable but adds that water damage is significant.

See the full interview here:

According to PlacesNZ website, the building was built in 1881 for Invercargill Businessman William Paisley in 1881, and sold to William Guthrie and Co in 1883. Briscoes bought this building was as the Invercargill warehouse and office in 1901.

PlacesNZ goes on to say that Though the Paisley and Guthrie ownerships of the Invercargill building were comparatively brief, their names are still featured on the buildings, but it is the association with Briscoes which cements it’s Heritage Status and indeed status in the Dee Street Facades precinct.

Much has happened since the Briscoes we know moved to a more suitable site some years ago with many businesses occupying space in the grand old building over the years.

Does the fire mean that the building is now no longer fit for purpose or any purpose so the diggers will be called in?

If the structure is bowled that will mean there will be an empty space in the central city. Will the microscope of safety also be cast on neighbouring buildings like that which house Waxy O’Shea’s bar and restaurant?

It’s reported that the fire was caused by an electrical devise which set a bed on fire but investigations are continuing .

What memories do you have of the old grand building? If it has to go what would you like to see in it’s place?