Building record 1160/441/21 - Womens wards

{1} This block forms the north part of the west side of the main building complex. This was the female side of the workhouse: in 1897 it contained the nursery, laundry and wash-house facilities. From the map evidence this building was part of Scott's 1837 workhouse: the original building was 5.8m wide and, from the structural evidence, was probably constructed in a similar style to the adjoining cross wing, and other structures of that period.
From the map evidence, the building does not appear to have undergone any significant structural alterations until after the conversion of the site to a hospital. The two-storey flat-roofed extension on its east side, containing corridors giving improved access to both floors, was built between 1938 and 1962. This was probably related to the construction of the building to the south, which provided new stairs and a lift giving access to this part of the hospital. The single storey range of consulting rooms and toilets, also on the east side, was built between 1962-71, as was the link to the Physio Hall, which replaced an 1837 structure (coal store and stable).
The earliest part of this building is constructed in red brick, in English Bond, with two stepped projecting eaves courses. Original windows all have brick arched lintels and stone sills, and are 2-2sashes. While those on the first floor (west elevation) appear largely original (one is blocked), the ground floor openings have undergone significant modification. The hipped roof is clad in Welsh slate. All structural details on the east side of the building are obscured by later additions.
Internally, the ground floor arrangements relating to the wash-house and nursery have been obliterated by subsequent alterations, though it is possible to suggest with some certainty that the wall at the north end of the occupational therapy room is an original feature. The window apertures in the original east wall have been retained, so some idea of the original window locations at floor level can be gained. The same is true on the first floor. The most recent use of the building has been to house the occupational therapy department of the hospital.

<1> Zeepvat B., 2004, Historic Building Survey: St Edmund's Hospital, Wellingborough Road, Northampton, P. 35 (checked) (Report). SNN104796.

Record last edited

Jun 16 2008 10:31AM