2–18 St Werburgh Street, Chester

2–18 Saint Werburgh Street, on the east of Saint Werburgh Street and north of Eastgate Street in Chester, is a Grade II* listed terrace. Designed by architect John Douglas in the 1890s, it was built after Chester City Council widened the street, replacing old shops with a unified design leading to Chester Cathedral. It now houses a bank, shops, and offices.

Initially, the council planned to sell the land in parcels, but John Douglas purchased the entire stretch, envisioning a cohesive architectural statement. Though Douglas originally planned a Gothic design in stone and brick diapering, he adapted his vision under the influence of the Duke of Westminster, incorporating black-and-white half-timbering into the upper stories, a hallmark of Chester’s architectural character.

The first completed building, located at the corner of Eastgate Street, became the premises of the Bank of Liverpool. Other units were subsequently developed into shops, contributing to the vibrant commercial life of the area. A plaque commemorating John Douglas, placed 12 years after his death, honors his contribution to the city's architectural heritage.

The terrace spans three stories with attics, featuring green Westmorland slate roofs. The bank's ground floor is constructed from yellow sandstone resting on a granite plinth, while modern shopfronts now occupy portions of the street-level façade. The upper stories are an uninterrupted expanse of richly adorned half-timbering, with intricate carvings depicting Norman earls, and saints, including Saint Werburgh, and Queen Victoria. Decorative brick chimney stacks rise above the roofline, adding to the terrace's ornate charm.

This striking architectural composition not only enhances Chester’s historic cityscape but also stands as a testament to John Douglas’ innovative approach to urban design.