Beverley Housing Charity (BHC), formerly known as Beverley Consolidated Charity, has a rich history dating back centuries in providing affordable housing for older residents in Beverley, Molescroft, Woodmansey, and Tickton. With a diverse portfolio of 161 properties ranging from modern builds to historic structures, BHC exemplifies the balance between preserving architectural heritage and meeting contemporary housing needs.

Long-Term Vision

BHC aims for a 30-year lifespan for each refurbished property, balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability. This approach ensures that investments in property improvements yield benefits for multiple generations of residents.

As properties become void, the team at Delaney Marling Partnership oversees several crucial refurbishment projects for the charity. Current projects include:

Crown Mews:

Credit: Beverley Housing Charity

Blending history with modernity, Crown Mews is a new-build almshouse development tucked away on Hengate in the town centre. This property represents BHC’s commitment to providing additional housing options while respecting local history. In 1994, BHC purchased the Crown Brush Works, which included a former 18th-century coach house. This acquisition led to the development of Crown Mews, integrating historical elements with contemporary housing solutions. Although a relatively recent addition to BHC’s portfolio, Crown Mews requires ongoing upkeep to maintain its high standards and adapt to evolving resident needs.

Citadel Court: Central Living for Enhanced Support

This development offers a unique advantage to its residents, being conveniently located near the charity’s offices on Morton Lane. Beverley Housing Charity (BHC) had owned all but one of the properties, which are rented to local people. The recent acquisition of the remaining property means that this secluded cul-de-sac is now exclusively home to residents of Beverley Housing Charity. The area provides modern, comfortable living spaces, in very close proximity to the town centre.

Ladygate Upgrade:

The team at DMP is also overseeing a single property on Ladygate which is currently undergoing specific enhancements to improve living conditions and energy efficiency.

Trinity Lane Comprehensive Refurbishment: A delightful terraced property on Trinity Lane is receiving a thorough modernisation, including:

  • Kitchen replacement with modern, accessible fittings.
  • Conversion of the bathroom into a wet room to enhance safety and accessibility.
  • Installation of a wet wall system to eliminate grout-related maintenance issues.
  • Addition of silent fans to combat condensation and damp.

Tailored Solutions for Ageing Residents

The charity strives to find solutions that cater to individual preferences while prioritising safety. Wet rooms are being installed to replace baths with the aim of preventing falls.

Moisture Management Strategies

Residents are educated on best practices for moisture control, including using wet rooms for drying clothes with closed doors, reducing the risk of damp and mould issues throughout the properties.

Project Management

  • Specification and Tendering – DMP prepares detailed specifications and manages the tendering process, ensuring high-quality work at competitive prices.
  • Project Management – Kevin from DMP leads the project management efforts, coordinating with local construction firms Hobson and Porter and Clark and Hay. This local collaboration supports the community economy while ensuring work is carried out to the highest standards.
  • Cost Control – Rigorous project cost management ensures that refurbishments are completed within budget, maximising the impact of BHC’s resources.

Community Impact

BHC’s properties cater to a specific demographic: older residents of retirement age who have lived in Beverley for at least ten years during their lifetime and are in financial need. This targeted approach ensures that the charity’s resources are directed towards those most in need within the community.

The Role of Chartered Building Surveyors

As Chartered Building Surveyors, the team at Delaney Marling Partnership brings crucial expertise to BHC’s property management efforts. Our ongoing partnership involves:

  • Conducting thorough property surveys to identify maintenance needs.
  • Developing comprehensive refurbishment plans that balance modernisation with historical preservation.
  • Ensuring compliance with current building regulations and safety standards.
  • Advising on sustainable and energy-efficient solutions to reduce long-term operating costs.

The collaboration between Beverley Housing Charity and Delaney Marling Partnership showcases the power of combining historical stewardship with modern housing solutions. Through careful planning, strategic refurbishments, and a deep understanding of resident needs, BHC continues to provide essential, high-quality housing for elderly residents in Beverley and its surrounding areas.

Photo credits: Beverley Housing C