Last month, The James Charities marked the start of their significant redevelopment project with a ground breaking ceremony.
The charity, which has been providing almshouse accommodation for over 55s at its site on Stuart Street in Nechells, inner-city Birmingham, for over 150 years, is transforming its communal building on the historic site of the old St Clement’s Church into ten new almshouses and updated communal facilities. The redevelopment has been part-funded by Homes England and the Justham Trust, with the support of the Almshouse Association and Charity Bank.
These new apartments will provide high-quality, independent living accommodation for individuals in need over the age of 55. In keeping with the historical significance of the site, the two main façades of the original Victorian building will be carefully retained and integrated into the new development. The project also includes environmental aspects that will improve biodiversity in the area.
The £2.1million project has been designed by KKE Architects and is being delivered by Midlands-based contractor, Interclass PLC. The project is expected to complete towards the end of 2025.
Lynda Matheson, Chair of the James Charities Trustee Ltd, said: “After several years of careful planning, the board is excited to see the physical start of this exciting phase in the charity’s work. With the new almshouses, the James Charities will be able to accommodate more people in need, remaining true to the wishes of Elizabeth and Emma James, who set the charity in motion back in 1869.”
Wesley Lovett, Senior Lending Manager at Charity Bank said: “Charity Bank is proud to support The James Charities with cost-of-living loan and grant funding, as they develop much-needed supported housing for those over the age of 55. Our cost-of-living funding aims to support projects that help organisations and residents manage the cost-of-living while creating a lasting positive impact. This development of new almshouses in Birmingham will support the local community and contribute to a brighter future.”
Des O’Neill, Managing Director at Interclass, said: “We are very proud to be delivering these new independent living apartments, which will offer high-standard accommodation for people in need whilst preserving the historic elements of the old St Clement’s Church. Our goal is to maintain and enhance the sense of community that is so evident here as the project progresses, and we look forward to seeing the new building take shape over the coming months.”
The project was procured through Constructing West Midlands, a publicly owned and managed framework which has a track record in the delivery of public and third sector projects.
The Charity successfully applied for grant funding from Homes England to part fund the redevelopment of the ten homes. The Charity joined the Almshouse Consortium to obtain advice on securing the affordable homes grant required to deliver the new homes. The Consortium has been established over ten years as an approved Homes England Partner to support Almshouses across the country.
