Regeneration project helps ex-serviceman put “eyesore property to good use”

An eyesore property that has stood vacant for several years have been given a fresh lease of life thanks to the work of a former serviceman.

Shaun Stocker, 27, redeveloped the property on Manley Road thanks to the Welsh Government’s Vibrant and Viable Places (VVP) Empty Property Loan scheme.

Over the years the empty property has attracted concerns from neighbours and the wider community due to being an eyesore and attracting antisocial behaviour.

Following the purchase of the property by a local property developer, and thanks to help from VVP Loan, the old building was demolished – making way for eight, high quality self-contained flats.

Shaun suffered serious injuries while serving with the Army in Afghanistan, and has subsequently developed a career as a property developer.

He’s also a keen fundraiser for Blind Veterans UK and has raised thousands for the charity.

Speaking about the redevelopment, Shaun said: “I’m very proud of this achievement and very grateful to Wrexham council for the loan – without this help, it would have been very hard to complete.

“I’m also grateful to my friend Tony Thackeray, who managed the build.

“It’s amazing to see such a beautiful building that was once an idea come to life, and it’s an added bonus to have made such a difference in the local area.”

Cllr Terry Evans, lead member for economic performance and regeneration, added: “I’m very pleased to see this work complete, and I’m very grateful to Mr Stocker for all the work he has put into the regeneration of this site.

“VVP funding has played a key part in the regeneration of parts of Wrexham and I know residents will be very pleased to see the site of what was once an eyesore building put to good use.”