£2.3m refurbishment of historic Howden Dene in Northumberland nears completion

Fourteen apartments for older people will be available to rent from summer 2023, following the refurbishment of a historic building at Howden Dene in Corbridge.

Originally built in 1890, Howden Dene is located on Newcastle Road and was first renovated in 1986. The property is let on a long-term lease to Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life.

Before the refurbishment began, the building was a collection of retirement flats, some offices and communal spaces. The new design will see 14 apartments created within the building across the ground, first and second floors, which will all be available for affordable rent to local people.

Designed by Brewster Bye Architects, the work is being carried out by Esh Construction. Mark Henderson from Brewster Bye, said: “We were extremely sensitive to the building’s history throughout our design to ensure that any alternations made, including new partition walls, were temporary by nature and could potentially be removed in the future, with no damage to the original building.

“We developed the new layouts that preserve all the building’s key features, whilst creating desirable apartments ideal for retirement living. The building is not listed or in a conservation area, but any changes have been in keeping with the internal character and fabric of the building, which is stunning.

“The apartments have either one or two bedrooms, and all have an open plan living and kitchen area and bathroom. On the ground floor there is a communal sitting room, and all residents will benefit from having a local manager on hand. A new lift is being installed alongside new timber sash windows and mechanical and electrical upgrades are being made throughout.”

Set in the local countryside, Howden Dene is only three miles from Corbridge town centre and there is a local bus stop just 100 yards from the property’s main street entrance. The nearest post office is located one mile away and the nearest doctors is just half a mile away.

Senior development manager for regeneration at Anchor, Paul Silk, said: “We’re delighted to have worked with Brewster Bye and Esh Construction to provide additional high-quality suitable homes where residents can love living in later life. The homes, located nearby to Corbridge, are within close proximity of local amenities and transport links which are important factors for residents.

“The property also benefits from communal facilities including a lounge and guest suite for visitors and support and assistance are available on site including our 24-hour emergency call system for added peace of mind.

“Our schemes provide much-needed, well-designed, affordable, and accessible homes for people living in later life. We look forward to welcoming residents and anticipate great demand for the homes.”

Brewster Bye Architects has worked with Anchor on several projects across the UK, including numerous retirement and extra care older persons’ housing developments.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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