The Holborn mansion blocks project

SPH Housing and about 150 tenants have embarked on a major three year £9 million refurbishment programme that will revitalise five beautiful mansion blocks built in Holborn, central London back in the 1880s.

The work is a well considered balance between preserving many of the original features, such as the glorious terrazzo tiles loved by the residents – and essential modernisation to ensure tenants have up-to-date comfort and conveniences.

The work will ensure the blocks meet modern energy and insulation standards, as well as the government’s Decent Homes requirements. Kitchens, bathrooms, heating, joinery, plumbing, drainage and windows will all be included in the overhaul.

The five blocks are:
Braunton mansions: 6 flats, commercial unit on the ground floor
Bideford mansions: 12 flats, commercial unit on the ground floor
Barnstaple mansions: 14 flats, commercial units on the ground floor
Dulverton mansions: 49 flats, commercial unit on the ground floor
Dawlish mansions: 3 flats, commercial unit on the ground floor

SPH has involved tenants from the start of the project and will consult you at every stage, through meetings, newsletters and the efforts of a dedicated tenant liaison officer. This will ensure you have a say in how the work is carried out, such as choosing kitchen and bathroom furniture and how any disruption can be minimised.

Frequently asked questions

How much notice will we get before decanting begins?

We do not know at present. We want to give as much notice as possible because we understand the implications it has on your lives. We hope to be able to provide at least two months. There will be 6 weeks for surveys and inspections now. We will have another meeting afterwards when we will have several major options on what we need to consider and discuss with you.

What happens to our belongings?

We will help arrange movers to transport them. Movers will be paid for by us. We can also store your belongings. We will be insuring any goods in transport and in storage.

What is ‘Decent Homes’?

This is a government initiative to bring all housing stock in the UK up to a decent standard by 2010. The government has a very large document which explains what is “decent” in great detail. However, in principle it is things like reasonable state of repair, reasonable degree of thermal comfort, modern facilities and services. More specific things are like wind and water tight, insulation, new kitchens and bathrooms.