From York Unlocked to 120 Heritage Homes

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Blog, Community, Current Developments, Featured, New Properties, News & Events, P J Livesey News

08

September, 2025

Opening the Doors to The Retreat, York

In September we welcomed more than 850 visitors as part of the city-wide York Unlocked heritage event

For the first time in its long history, the public were able to explore this extraordinary site – a place that has overlooked the city for more than two centuries. With 37 acres of landscaped grounds, a peaceful atmosphere, and views stretching to York Minster, it was a rare opportunity to step behind the walls and discover one of York’s hidden landmarks.

A Day of Discovery

The event, organised and promoted by York Unlocked, proved so popular that additional ticket allocations had to be released to meet demand. Visitors followed self-guided routes around the extensive grounds, with information points highlighting the site’s unique heritage and significance.

Many also stepped inside the former Recreation Hall to glimpse its remarkable interiors – a space rarely seen by the public before.

Heritage and Personal Stories

What made the day so special were the personal stories shared by former staff and families connected to The Retreat. Their memories added warmth and depth to the experience, reminding us of the human history woven into every part of this remarkable place.

Looking Ahead

We were delighted to host York Unlocked at The Retreat and are grateful to the volunteers who made the day possible. While this event was part of the city’s wider programme, we are planning our own series of heritage and engagement events, curated by our Events & Engagement Officer, Lucy South, to continue opening up the site to the community.

As development progresses, more areas of The Retreat will be revealed, offering new opportunities to explore and connect with its story.

The Future of The Retreat

The Retreat is now undergoing a transformation. The estate is being sensitively reshaped into a community of 120 characterful heritage homes, steeped in history and retaining many original features. Alongside these, a number of sustainably designed new homes will be created to sit perfectly within their historic surroundings – ensuring this unique site continues to play a role in York’s story for generations to come.

Be Part of the Next Chapter

Our next event will be the October Exclusive VIP Property Preview, offering a first look at this exciting new chapter for The Retreat, York.

👉 Register here to secure your place

You can also sign up to hear about future heritage and community events, so you don’t miss the chance to explore more of this remarkable site.

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Why Southsea is the perfect place to call home

by | Nov 21, 2024 | Blog, Case Study, Community, Current Developments, Featured, News & Events, St. James Hospital, Portsmouth, Uncategorised

20
November, 2024

southsea, the perfect place to call home

Transforming the former St James Hospital might just be our favourite project so far ! 

Why Southsea is the perfect place to call home

Transforming the former St James Hospital might just be our favourite project so far.

The grand, gothic style Grade II listed buildings, now known as St. James Park, Southsea are being given a new chapter as we create new community of contemporary homes, with open green space and tranquil residents’ facilities.

One of the biggest selling points for St James Park has to be its location in the stunning coastal town of Southsea.

With its dynamic blend of natural beauty, independent spirit, and vibrant community, Southsea offers an enviable lifestyle. So, what makes this coastal gem such a desirable place to live?

Beachside Bliss and Outdoor Spaces

For those who love the outdoors, Southsea offers some of the most picturesque coastal views in the UK. The Southsea Beach stretches along the seafront, providing the perfect place for early morning strolls, paddleboarding, or simply watching the sunset over the Solent. The nearby Southsea Common, a vast expanse of green space, is a favourite for picnics, outdoor fitness sessions, or a quiet moment in nature.

Living in Southsea means you’re never far from the refreshing sea air or the tranquillity of open spaces. Whether you’re walking along the pebbled beach or cycling around the leafy avenues, the blend of coastal and green spaces provides a wonderful backdrop for a balanced lifestyle.

Indie vibes and local treasures

Southsea is renowned for its laid-back, independent spirit, and the town’s high streets reflect that in spades. Quirky boutiques, artisan coffee shops, and bustling restaurants line the roads of Albert Road and Osborne Road, making it a haven for those who appreciate local craftsmanship and community.

For the coffee connoisseurs, Garage Lounge offers one of the best brews in town, while The Tenth Hole is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, serving cakes that are legendary among locals. The area also has an abundance of vintage shops, record stores, and galleries, adding to its eclectic charm. Southsea’s independent ethos is woven into its fabric, making it an exciting place to explore and discover something new around every corner.

Dining, nightlife, and retail hotspots

When it comes to dining out, Southsea has a thriving culinary scene that caters to all tastes. From casual, beachside eateries to high-end dining experiences, the area boasts an impressive range of options. Restaurant 27 offers fine dining with a modern British twist, while The Chambers is a local favourite for its atmospheric interior and globally inspired menu.

For those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife, Southsea doesn’t disappoint. Trendy bars like the Merchant House are perfect for craft beer enthusiasts, while Alchemist brings an innovative cocktail experience to the town. Retail therapy is also well-catered for, with local businesses and boutique stores offering everything from designer homewares to unique fashion finds.

Festivals and events: bringing the community together

One of the most exciting aspects of Southsea life is its packed calendar of festivals and events. The annual Victorious Festival, held on Southsea Common, is a highlight of the year, attracting international music acts alongside local talent. It’s not just about music though — throughout the year, residents can enjoy events such as the Southsea Food Festival, where local eateries come together to showcase their best dishes, or the Love Southsea Market, a bustling hub of local makers, bakers, and artisans.

These events highlight Southsea’s vibrant sense of community, offering both residents and visitors an opportunity to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the town’s creative energy.

A place to call home

Living in Southsea means being part of a welcoming, dynamic, and diverse community. For new residents of St James Park, this thriving coastal town offers not just a home, but a lifestyle. With its stunning natural surroundings, thriving independent businesses, and exciting cultural events, Southsea is more than just a location—it’s a way of life.

We look forward to helping you explore all that this wonderful town has to offer. Stay tuned as we spotlight some of Southsea’s best-loved businesses and local events in the coming months across our social media.

Discover more about what is available at St James Park. Call our sales team now on 0800 151 0960 and arrange your visit to the Marketing Suite or just pop on down to discuss information about our first phase releases, including CGIs, floor plans, and the rest of what’s on offer at St James Park.

For further updates make sure to register your interest here:

Register Your Interest
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Hundreds of Parbold locals get a first glimpse

by | Jul 15, 2024 | Blog, Community, News & Events, Uncategorised

16
July, 2024

Parbold locals get a first glimpse

We had a fantastic day at the Parbold Village Show last weekend

We had a fantastic day at the Parbold Village Show – an annual village fixture that sees hundreds of families come together for a day of fun!

Our team were there for the first time since we announced our plans for The Retreat, the repurposing of the Lancaster House former convent site into a stunning community of bespoke conversions and beautiful new homes.

From brass bands and artisan stalls, to musical performances and local worthy causes, the whole community came together (and even the rain stayed away!)

We had such a warm welcome the organisers, stall neighbours and visitors – whether young, old or our four-legged friends.

A massive thank you to everyone who took the time to visit us. We had so many conversations about our plans for The Retreat, with great interest in the historic site’s next chapter. We also met locals who had fascinating personal connections and memories of Lancaster House.

There’s still time to sign up to be the first to get detailed information about the homes at The Retreat. We will be hosting an exclusive VIP first look event later this month. Sign up here to get your invitation: Click Here >

Our sales Negotiator Mark Small will be based at The Retreat in Parbold from this summer, as work gets started on site. He said: “The community really came out in force for the packed out show and it’s a pleasure to be able to be a part of the village annual fixture. Sincere thanks to the organisers and all the volunteers that made everything run like clockwork. We’re already looking forward to next year!

“We’ve been blown away by such significant early interest in the new homes planned for The Retreat and can’t wait to be able to reveal more details on the 23 bespoke, individual homes that we’ll be delivering. Work is ramping up on site in the coming weeks and the first residents will be able to reserve off plan this summer.”

We’ll be announcing the winner of our luxury hamper soon!

Register Your Interest
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First Awards from our Community Green Fund

by | Apr 9, 2024 | Blog, Community, News & Events, P J Livesey News, Uncategorised

09
April, 2024

First Awards from our Community Green Fund

We are delighted to announce the first recipients of funding

We are delighted to announce the first recipients of funding from the Ralph Brocklehurst Legacy Fund helping communities improve and maintain their green spaces.

Both projects are in Parbold, close to our latest development, and will enable volunteer residents to brighten their local area this spring and summer.

The first award of £500 will let the Friends of Parbold Station buy a new tiered planter and the plants to fill it for the Southport-bound side of the station.

John Sloane, from the Group said: “Following the removal of a passenger shelter we need a new focal point for the platform and this award will help us provide that.

“We are all incredibly proud of our station in Parbold which is well used by the local community and we want to keep it a bright and colourful place. We are delighted to have the support of the PJ Livesey Group, through the Ralph Brocklehurst Fund, to help us do that.”

The second award of £200 will allow a small but dedicated group of volunteers buy materials and tools for the maintenance of public gardens in Parbold.

The Parbold Tree Warden Group regularly take part in weeding, planting, pruning and litter-picking to make sure the village’s gardens and verges, particularly around protected trees, are looking their best.

The Group needs funds to buy more equipment for their volunteers.

Managing director Georgina Lynch said: “We are really pleased to announce the first recipients and I am sure Ralph would have been delighted to know of the work being done in his name.

“We look forward to receiving more applications to the Fund from charitable groups within five miles of our current developments in Sheffield, Portsmouth and Stroud as well as Parbold.”

Lancaster House on Lancaster Lane was built in 1845 for local industrialist Hugh Ainscough, it was used by the family up until 1929 when it was first rented, then purchased, by The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur UK, who occupied the 6.5-acre site up until 2021.

The main house is being converted into four grand apartments, while the stable block will become five new homes. Thirteen new build properties are being built within the grounds.

Georgina added: “The gardens of Lancaster House are just as important as the buildings and are being restored and improved to create a place of peace and tranquillity which residents will be able to enjoy.”

To learn more about the Ralph Brocklehurst Fund and how to apply please CLICK HERE

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Launch of Community Green Legacy Fund

by | Feb 22, 2024 | Blog, Community, P J Livesey News, Uncategorised, Updates

22

February, 2024

Launch of Community Green Legacy Fund

The Ralph Brocklehurst Legacy Fund set up to help groups and communities

We are very proud to announce the launch of the Ralph Brocklehurst Legacy Fund set up to help groups and communities wanting to improve gardens and green spaces in their local neighbourhood.

The Fund is named to remember and celebrate the life of Ralph Brocklehurst, a key part of the PJ Livesey story over three decades, and passionate gardener who sadly died from cancer in 2022.

Managing director, Georgina Lynch, said: “Ralph had a great love of buildings and gardens and we wanted to honour his memory by helping local communities create or improve their own gardens or green spaces, creating places that people can enjoy.

“Ralph understood the restorative power of plants and gardens and having places, be they large or small, where you can connect with nature is hugely important.

“We always want to enhance the communities where we develop and this is a way to support the work being done by people to improve their local environment.”

Community groups, schools and other organisations within five miles of our on-going developments can apply for a grant of up to £1,000 and the money can be used to purchase tools, plants or to buy professional support.

Applications detailing the project and what the monies will be used for can be made throughout the year and will be awarded twice a year, in March and September.

Georgina added: “We know the power of a community and cannot wait to hear about projects either on-going or that need help to get started and to help them flourish and grow.”

 

CURRENT SITE LOCATIONS ARE:
• Green Walk, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3HA
• Tapton Court, Shore Ln, Sheffield S10 3BW
• Kings Court, Macclesfield, SK10 1AP
• St James Hospital, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO4 8LD
• Lancaster House, Parbold, Wigan WN8 7HT

Full application details
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Wreath Laid at Gateway of Remembrance

by | Nov 13, 2023 | Blog, Community, News & Events, P J Livesey News, Uncategorised

13

November, 2023

KINGS’ GATEWAY OF REMEMBRANCE

A wreath of poppies was laid at the former King’s School in Macclesfield

A wreath of poppies was laid at the Gateway of Remembrance at the former King’s School in Macclesfield to honour former pupils lost in both World Wars.

The Remembrance Day ceremony was led by members of the town’s Royal British Legion, with four standard bearers, and attended by the Mayor, Cllr Christopher Wilcock.

The gateway – commissioned in memory of former pupils lost in the Second World War – have now been restored and re-erected on the edge of the former cricket field.

PJ Livesey managing director, Georgina Lynch said: “The gateway is a well-loved feature of the King’s School site and will remain part of the new King’s Gate development.

“The Cricket Pavilion – erected in memory of pupils lost in the first World War – is also being retained and will be re-purposed to provide two affordable homes.

“We wanted to mark the repositioning of the gateway and pay our respects over the Remembrance Weekend and would like to thank the Royal British Legion for leading the ceremony and to everyone who attended.”

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