Grove Cottage provides social and educational activities for people of all ages with learning disabilities and special additional needs. Since 1972 the organisation has been operating from 151 London Road. The house next door was purchased in 1994 as the organisation continued to expand.
Due to increasing demand of Grove Cottage’s services in the local community over the years, plus the existing building was showing its age, needing urgent attention and no longer suitable. The client’s plans were to demolish the existing building and rebuild a new a specialist nursery and welcoming space for members of all ages.
Grove Cottage required the services of an architect to refine their design and take the project forward up to completion. Barker have been appointed to do this.
The challenge was to carry out a value engineering exercise of the original design while meeting the client’s requirements, redesign the existing building and improving where possible the previous design to bring the project into budget. In addition, this was required to be done within certain timescales in order to be able to secure funding.
The team proposed a solution whereby the new building will not only meet modern health and safety standards but also prioritise accessibility and inclusivity, enabling Grove Cottage to accommodate diverse needs and activities. Planning permission has been granted and funding to undertake the project secured. The team are currently at RIBA Stage 4 and in the process of appointing a Contractor to commence demolition works in July. Subsequent construction works will be phased out to completion.
“Barker are working with us to create a fantastic new nursery and extension for our members. Their guidance and expertise have been hugely beneficial and has allowed us the scope to utilise our space in the best possible way. We look forward to seeing the project develop from concept to reality. Our experience of Barker is very positive. We recommend them wholeheartedly.”
Richard Smith, Treasurer