The ceiling has been removed to allow the property to be converted(Image: Liversage Trust)

Inside famous Derby houses as £3 million modernisation project continues

by · Derbyshire Live

Work to modernise the almshouses in London Road, Derby, which are almost 200 years old, is continuing.

The homes built in 1836 have largely remained unchanged internally for many years.

They don’t have space for their own washing machines, they have very steep, narrow staircases, and none of them is large enough for couples or those needing carers.

It has been three months since work began on the Grade II-listed properties. The £3 million restoration and refurbishment project is one of the most significant heritage-led almshouse schemes currently being undertaken in the UK.

The building's owners, The Liversage Trust, was founded in 1529 and is one of Britain's oldest almshouse charities, having supported local people for nearly 500 years.

The work will see the existing 23 homes reconfigured into 17. The reduction from 23 homes to 17 is necessary to create larger, more practical living spaces that meet modern standards and better support residents' needs.

Almost three months into the programme, significant progress has been made. Internal strip-out works are complete, and structural alterations are underway.

The former offices and laundry facilities are being converted into new homes, major electrical upgrades are progressing, and the first phase of the mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems has been installed to improve air quality and energy efficiency.

Extensive roof repairs have been carried out, and deteriorated stonework is being carefully repaired and replaced by traditional stone masons. Throughout the project, every effort is being made to strike a careful balance between conservation and modernisation.

The external appearance of the almshouses will remain unchanged. Windows are being repaired and refurbished rather than replaced, original roof slates are being carefully reinstated following repairs and historic features are being retained.

Even where alterations are necessary to improve accessibility and living standards, the historic fabric of the buildings is being respected. For example, new staircases are being built, while the original staircases are being boxed in and preserved within the buildings.

Andy Mellors, Liversage Trust manager, said: “We know these buildings are incredibly important to many people and we want to reassure the community that their character and heritage are being carefully preserved.

"This project isn't about changing what the almshouses are or how they look. It's about ensuring they can continue providing safe, comfortable and affordable homes for older people for generations to come. Every decision we make is guided by that principle."

An upstairs wall being knocked through to make a bigger property(Image: Liversage Trust)
Detail on the Victorian fire grate(Image: Liversage Trust)
A new kneeler stone - the job of this stone is to support the inclined coping stones on the roof(Image: Liversage Trust)