Wolverhampton's Royal Hospital to become over-55s apartments
The historic Royal Hospital site in Wolverhampton is to be converted into apartments for over-55s.
Developer Jessup has been awarded the contract to transform the city centre hospital site, once earmarked for a Tesco store, by Homes England.
Jessup will be working with Walsall-based whg on the development.
The regeneration also proposes to provide houses and apartments on land to the rear of the hospital building, for sale, shared ownership and affordable rent.
The former hospital’s Porters Lodge will also be refurbished.
Cannock-based Jessup and whg are also progressing a redevelopment of the former bus depot site at Cleveland Road in front of the Royal Hospital.
Together, these two developments will provide a gateway into the city including a mix of homes and accommodation for older people.
The developer’s chief executive Clive Jessup said: “I am delighted Homes England has chosen Jessup for the next phase of this important city development.
“It means we can continue to invest in the local area with our support of local suppliers and subcontractors whilst continuing our apprenticeship programme.
"It also ensures the future of a much-loved historic building and comprehensively redevelops brownfield land with much needed quality, energy efficient homes.”
Gary Fulford, chief executive of whg, formerly Walsall Housing Group, said: "This development will provide much needed affordable homes in this prime location within the heart of Wolverhampton.”
Wolverhampton Council cabinet member, Councillor Harman Banger, added: “This is great news for a strategically important site that is part of the £4.4 billion regeneration taking place in our city.
“It is a critical part of how we are re-imagining and re-inventing our city centre.”
The developments have both been designed by architects BPN.
BPN director Dean Shaw added: "We will be working with the city and its partners to ensure the scheme sets a benchmark for urban development providing high quality sustainable homes and spaces.”
Tara Kennedy, senior development manager at Homes England, said: “We’re always looking to accelerate the pace of housebuilding with our partners, so are delighted to see this project take the next step forward."
