A DEVELOPER is calling on photographers to send in historic photos of a Basingstoke landmark.

The housebuilder behind the Chapel Gate development, in Kingsclere Road, Barratt Southern Counties, is putting out an appeal for photographs of the former Eli Lilly base, which it is changing into homes called The White Building.

While the housebuilder is transforming the old site into a new collection of apartments, it is hoping to honour the history of the building.

Barratt would like to hear from anyone who worked in the building in the past, or a photographer, who has historic internal or external photos of the factory in its heyday.

The artwork will be displayed in the new apartment building.

Sales director for Barratt Southern Counties, Lynnette St-Quintin, said: “The Eli Lilly factory is a much-loved Basingstoke landmark and we wish to honour its memory by displaying historical images in communal areas.

“We would also like to take the opportunity to inform new residents moving into The White Building later this year of the important role that the Eli Lilly factory played in serving the country in the Second World War.”

The building was a pharmaceutical factory in the 20th century.

Lynnette added: “We have been working hard with conversion specialists to ensure that the original structure and facades are being preserved, while many of the original art deco features have also been restored.

“We are looking forward to unveiling the new homes later this year, and would be delighted to receive any images that enable us to share the story of the much loved Eli Lilly factory.”

Anyone with any photos or relevant memorabilia that they would be willing to share as a part of the opening of the building in the summer can contact Rachel Colgan at rachel@building-relations.co.uk.