Shuttleworth Bros. Building (1873 - 1970)

This two-storey building on the north-side of Devon Street West (opposite St Joseph's Catholic Church) was built in 1873 for New Plymouth merchants, Shuttleworth Bros. The architect was Mr. Knott, and the contractor was Mr. H. Taylor of Brougham Street. Located on Town Section 637, purchased by Alexander Shuttleworth in 1872.

During the 1920s and 30s the building was used as a furniture factory, first by Mr.W.R. Beard, and then by Ashton Furnishings.

In 1944 this building, along with several adjoining sections, were offered for sale by L.A. Nolan Ltd. Together they formed part of the "Shuttleworth Estate", a block stretching between Devon Street West and Young Streets.

This building was bought by the St John Ambulance Association for £1,137. Following the purchase, it was extensively renovated to accommodate the offices of the Association.

The floor area was 3750 square feet, 1750 square feet upstairs and 2000 square feet on the ground floor. The proposal, when purchased, was for the Association to occupy the upper level and the ground floor was to be leased out. Tenants included the Hospital Board (a District Nurse), the office of City Dairy, and later a Hearing Aid Clinic.

The building was demolished in 1970 (note 1968 date is incorrect) to make way for the expansion of the car dealership, W.R. Phillips.

Related document and plans:

Taranaki Land Deed Index I5 page 80, Town Section 637.

Taranaki DP3621 Sheet 1 Devon Street West (1918), ICS Pre 300,000 Cadastral Plan Index (Imaged by LINZ)

Taranaki DP4784 Sheet 1 Devon Street West (1926), ICS Pre 300,000 Cadastral Plan Index (Imaged by LINZ)