Mercantile Bank of Lancashire. Lapwing Lane West Didsbury

We give a view of the new branch bank at West Didsbury, with a plan. The selected materials are red Ruabon bricks with vitreous buff terra-cotta dressings and bands. The terra-cotta is economic in that a considerable number of repeats may be made from the same moulds and a richness of treatment consequently adopted which would not otherwise be possible. The vitreousness or semi-glaze adds brilliancy to the varieties of buff fortunately unavoidable in the manufacture. It further prevents the absorption of damp and dirt and is always easily cleanable, qualities invaluable in districts in the vicinity of manufacturing centres. The building has been designed by Mr J Swarbrick, architect, Manchester. [Building News 5 July 1901 Page 10]

Although the illustration was published in 1901, the date shown on the building is 1903. In 1904, the Mercantile Bank of Lancashire ran into difficulties and was absorbed into the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank. The building is now given over to offices unconnected with banking. - Richard Fletcher

Reference    Building News 5 July 1901 Page 10 and illustration
Reference    Works by Joseph Swarbrick listed in his FRIBA nomination paper, 11 February 1903