Higgins has officially handed over the mixed tenure development, St Bernard’s Gate in the London Borough of Ealing to Housing Association, Catalyst
The £49.8m project, on the site of the former Victorian asylum, St Bernard’s Hospital, has delivered 266 new homes in six individual blocks, consisting of 126 market sale, 98 Shared Ownership, 22 social rent and 20 at the new London Living Rent. The scheme has a total of 53% affordable homes.
A number of the historic features were retained during the project, including three Grade II listed buildings; a Gatehouse which dates from 1831 and acts as a striking main entrance; North House, the 18th century accommodation for doctors working at the asylum and St Bernard’s Chapel.
All three will be restored to their former glory, with the Chapel and Gatehouse being used as community assets, commercial retail space and affordable workspace, and North House providing luxury apartments.
Steve Leakey, managing director of Higgins, commented: “The homes at St Bernard’s Gate have been built to the highest standard and complement the Grade II listed buildings which have been sympathetically restored.
“We are delighted to have worked with Catalyst on this high quality development, which is delivering such a high percentage of affordable homes but not compromising on style or construction quality.”
The design and layout of the new buildings were developed so they did not distract away from the character of the listed buildings and each building blends in seamlessly without compromising on style, regardless of tenure.
The development was also designed to support Ealing Council in its housing provision; the scheme has helped the borough achieve its core objectives to increase the supply of affordable homes, improve the quality of homes in the area and help people in Ealing access affordable, well managed homes.
James Chatt-Collins, director of sales & marketing for Catalyst said: “We are delighted to have worked with Higgins to deliver such a high quality development at St Bernard’s Gate. Not only does it look great, this new neighbourhood provides a significant number of affordable homes for local first time buyers, as well as brand new public space and excellent community facilities.”
