Supporting a growing town with a new community hub.
Newholme Hospital is one of Bakewell’s most significant heritage assets — a landmark group of listed buildings within a conservation area and mature landscape. Working with Kingsman Homes, we are helping to transform the site into a carefully considered residential development that protects its historic character while securing a sustainable future for the buildings.
The site has been part of Bakewell’s story since 1838, originally built as a purpose-designed workhouse serving the town and nearby villages. It evolved over time, and in 1948 the NHS converted it into a community hospital, adding substantial clinical accommodation to the rear. Today, the listed frontage buildings, lodges and gatehouses remain a defining element of Bakewell’s streetscape, enclosing a formal garden that contributes strongly to the town’s identity.
Our involvement began when the NHS explored taking the site to market. Working with their consultant team, we prepared feasibility and viability studies focused on retaining the key listed buildings — the main hospital, lodges and nurses’ home — while identifying opportunities for sensitively designed new homes to the rear. This work included early engagement with the Peak District National Park Authority to understand heritage sensitivities, landscape value, local housing needs and suitable building typologies. The resulting Development Brief formed the core of the NHS marketing pack.
Kingsman Homes acquired the site in 2023, and following the NHS’s full relocation in 2024, we were appointed to develop detailed proposals. The plans centre on converting the listed buildings into 21 apartments and cottages, giving them renewed purpose while preserving their architectural significance. To the rear, 26 bespoke new homes are proposed, designed to sit comfortably within the grounds and respect the landscape setting.
The vision for Newholme is firmly heritage led. Every decision is shaped around preserving what makes the site special — its formal garden, its distinctive frontage along Bakewell Road and its historic presence within the townscape. By combining sensitive conservation with thoughtful new development, the project ensures these cherished buildings will continue to contribute to Bakewell for generations to come.
