18th century ‘hidden gem’ to be preserved by charity

A new charity has been set up to save heritage buildings across Nottingham, including an 18th century townhouse often described as one of the city’s hidden gems.

The City of Nottingham Historic Buildings Limited (CoNHBL) has been created to preserve buildings which are in poor condition, including listed buildings and parks. Locally listed heritage assets will also come under its influence.

CoNHBL has been working with Nottingham City Council to find a future for the grade II star listed People’s Hall in Heathcoat Street, Hockley, using funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The property is on the Listed Buildings at Risk Register.

It was built in 1750 by city businesswoman Ann Morley, who also lived at the house.

Peter Ellis, chair of the CoNHBL board of trustees, said: “We are pleased to announce the registration of the charity. It has been set up tackle heritage at risk in the city and find new futures for old buildings for the benefit of the public.

“The trustees of the new charity are already developing plans to protect and conserve a number of historic buildings in the city and want to hear from the public about their hopes and fears for Nottingham’s heritage.

“The charity has a really important part to play in terms of Nottingham’s past, present and future. The charity is dedicated to preserving important monuments across the city.”

Alongside its work on The People’s Hall, CoNHBL has secured funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund and a grant from the National Lottery Heritage fund – with help from Nottingham City Council – to look at new uses for the grade II listed Bulwell Hall Stables. Its long-term aim is to preserve the stables and save the building from vandalism.