Lancaster House is an exceptional property set in walled grounds just outside the lovely West Lancashire town of Parbold.

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.

Our plans will see the main house converted to create four grand apartments, and original features, like a sweeping staircase and ornate ceiling, will be retained. The views from the large windows at the front of the house onto the gardens are glorious.

An adjoining cottage will be restored as a single unique property and the estate’s stable block, which includes a distinctive brick tower, will be converted to provide five properties.

A 1980’s accommodation block will be demolished to allow construction of 13 new build family houses.

The grounds at Lancaster House will be just as significant as the properties, providing a place for residents to relax and recharge. The mature trees will be retained, hedged walkways and formal gardens will be restored, paths reopened and new areas of reflection and contemplation created.

The site adjoins the Grade II listed Our Lady and All Saints Church and there will be a new pedestrian route created through to Lancaster Lane.

St James Hospital in Portsmouth is made up of a handsome set of buildings set in mature open parkland and approached down a tree lined drive.

Built originally as the city’s asylum, activity and open space was important for treatment, so the hospital had its own kitchen gardens, a dairy and brewery as well as farm buildings and its own Chapel.

The hospital treated injured soldiers during both world wars and in 1948 became part of the new National Health Service. Health services reduced in the 1980’s and 90’s and St James closed as a hospital in 2018.

The PJ Livesey Group was named preferred developer by the NHS and we plan to turn these magnificent Gothic-style Grade 2 listed buildings into truly unique new homes within this beautiful setting.

Using our skills of four decades, the original buildings will be converted to create a mix of spacious apartments, most with their own private outside space, and two storey houses with their own front doors opening onto courtyards.

They will be light and bright and full of character.

Set sensitively to the rear of the site will be new build contemporary houses, ranging from two bedrooms to five bedrooms with private gardens.

The Grade II listed Chapel will remain as will the cricket pitch and pavilion.

The grounds will be improved with new cycling and walking routes.

It is an idyllic setting, within walking distance of local community facilities and the independent buzz of Southsea.