Wyggestons’ landmark extension
Mon 20 March 2023
Lancaster House, the significant new extension to the established facilities at Wyggestons in Leicester is now complete and being fully utilised. The project which took just over 2 years to finish due to delays caused by Covid-19, has added six fully self-sufficient bungalows and eight self-contained one and two-bedroom flats, as well as a new administration hub and community lounge.
Originally founded as an Almshouse Charity in 1513, Wyggestons has been successfully providing sheltered housing and housing related support and care services for vulnerable older people at its site at Hinckley Road in Leicester since the 1960’s.
Andrew Granger & Co’s professional team has been working for the Wyggestons Charity, managing the Estate for many years, and oversaw the large scheme.
Chris Jones, CEO of Wyggestons, says: “This project has felt a long time in the making, from the initial idea through to planning and then the build itself but it’s well worth it, seeing it now.
“The thought behind the design was to improve current facilities for residents and staff, bringing them in line with modern day requirements whilst providing more housing to expand the amount of older people Wyggestons can assist, through sustainable development. Previously, we were able to accommodate a maximum of 89 residents, and this has now increased to 117.
“At the time of writing this we’re also waiting to see how the scheme has been received in relation to our Almshouse Association award application. Whatever happens, we’re all absolutely delighted with the difference the extension has made.”
Andrew Granger and Co’s role was to manage all the elements and liaise with the key stakeholders to bring this project to fruition, working alongside local architect Corporate Architecture. Speaking about his involvement, Andrew Robinson, a Director of Andrew Granger & Co Ltd, said: “We’re very lucky to have a close working relationship with Wyggestons and there’s nothing better than working with clients, starting from what is just an initial idea and sketch, through to seeing the completed project – especially when it’s this significant and going to make such a difference.
“I feel the real success of this project has been in respecting the theory behind the idea of the almshouse, from all those many years ago, and building on that to create something suitable for 21st century living.”
More information on Wyggestons can be found at www.wyggestons.org.uk.
For further information on Andrew Granger & Co Professional the team can be contacted on 0116 242 9933.
*Photos courtesy of Corporate Architecture.
