The buildings lay empty for over a decade as plans for the historically-important site were discussed. The final approved design sees three historic buildings, which date from 1872 and are of local significance, turned into 46 top-quality, beautiful 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments as well as another block of new town houses in the grounds.
The ambitious build is being overseen by Mega Construction (Midlands) Limited.
Their Contracts and Operations Manager, Ervin Hoxha says breathing new life into the building was a particular challenge: "There are three locally-listed buildings that were laying derelict. Their floors and roofs were water damaged, pigeons had made it their home and we had to strip it bare and refit it all internally – we were only keeping the walls really!"
The developers needed windows which fitted into a conservation area, were easy to install, would last and fitted in with the aesthetics of the project.
After looking at all options, Mega Construction ordered
52 of Dakea's Conservation KCV B901 windows for the project.
Kelly Azram, Area Sales Manager for Midlands, at Dakea told us: " The Conservation window was the ideal fit for this building and the local area, the design fitted with Mega Construction’s requirements with its black exterior and vertical bar." Dakea also supplied one AMC100 electric opener for a highly-positioned window which was out of reach.
Dakea was pleased to be involved with such a prestigious project. Kelly comments: “We were able to deliver the 52 windows swiftly. And Cambabest, the local independent builders’ merchant who recommended Dakea windows to Mega Construction, had room to hold them all in their yard. Mega Construction collected them ten at a time to prevent any damages on site.”
Ervin told us: “Dakea were very helpful, recommending windows that were perfect for us. Theirs were the best value for money and they were always on hand to answer any questions too.”
The Dakea roof windows have now all been installed and the buildings are restored to their former glory; all the masonry has been repointed, a new roof erected and concrete floors put in.
The team from Mega Construction are now busy refitting the inside of the buildings ready for the apartments to open in early 2023. Kelly comments; "Everyone involved in the project were so happy with the Dakea roof windows and we look forward to working them again in the future."
As for the renovation itself, Ervin told us: “The locals are overjoyed at the transformation of the buildings and are always taking photos and checking our progress so that’s a real marker that it’s a success. It’s been a pleasure to give the hospital a new lease of life for another 100 years or so, at least.”