St Bart’s enjoys new life as affordable homes

Published by RoyP for Sovereign Housing Association in Housing

One of Newbury’s more recognisable old buildings is enjoying a new lease of life by providing much needed affordable homes.

Wormestall Grange, on one of the former sites of St Bartholomew’s school, is an impressive building with Victorian and Edwardian features. It has been converted into a number of apartments including Shared Ownership homes that will allow people an affordable way to acquire their own home.

The Sovereign Living homes, which are located on Buckingham Road, consist of four spacious two-bedroom apartments.

“It is very unusual to have affordable homes as part of a conversion. This is a real landmark in Newbury and it’s fantastic to see its character retained. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to purchase their first home and for it to be in such a charming, distinctive and iconic building,” said Tony Quigley, Director of Home Ownership with Sovereign.

Shared Ownership, a government initiative, offers people the chance to buy a share of a new property and pay a subsided rent on the remaining share. As their financial situation changes, they can acquire further shares in the home at a later date.

Prices at Wormestall Grange start from £84,000 for a 40 per cent share of the property, plus rent of £262.50 a month.

“A whole generation risks being locked out of the housing market, and shared ownership offers them a way in,” Quigley said. “The average house price in West Berkshire is over £306,000, twelve times the average salary. We believe these properties on the old St Bart’s site can help people meet their aspiration to own their own home.”

St. Bartholomew’s School moved to new purpose-built accommodation in November 2010. The conversion of the building into apartments was carried out by Linden Homes.