Plans reveal Warwick’s medieval Leper Hospital could be converted into housing

Warwick District Council have drawn up plans to secure the future of Warwick’s medieval Leper Hospital.

Following the submission of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) by the council to secure acquisition of Warwick’s medieval Leper Hospital, planning permission is being sought which will allow for the restoration of the buildings located on the historic site.

If the CPO and planning application are approved, a regeneration project which is being led by Warwick District Council in partnership with Platform Housing Group and West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust will see the Grade II* Listed Master’s House and St Michael’s Chapel converted for residential use.

Also part of the project will be a new three storey residential block at the rear of the site providing eight one-bedroom apartments.

The council says the grounds will also be 'sympathetically landscaped to provide natural recreational space as well as parking.

Andrew Jones, Warwick District Council’s deputy chief executive, said: “In taking this project forward our overwhelming priority is to ensure that this part of Warwick’s heritage is protected and restored.

"Through our work alongside the West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust whose expertise lies in rescuing and conserving historic ‘at risk’ buildings, we will be able to preserve the legacy of the site and give it a sustainable future.”

Sue Whitehouse, West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust chair said: “Finding a way to conserve the buildings on this hugely significant historic site, and to give them a new lease of life, has been challenging.

"With the help and support of our partners at Warwick District Council, Platform, Historic England and the Architectural Heritage Fund we are almost there.

"We shall ensure local communities are kept involved with the project once we have the go ahead.”

Neil Adie, development director (east) for Platform Housing Group added: “Platform Housing Group is pleased to be working with WDC and WMHBT to enable these historic buildings to be brought back into use and at the same time to provide much needed affordable housing for local people.”

A leaflet detailing the plans is available to download at: https://issuu.com/wdcprintroom/docs/saltisford_road_redevelpment_proposal