A Grade II-listed 19th-century lifers’ jail that formerly housed serial murderers, Nazi war criminals, and an Eastenders actor from the “Dirty Den” is being transformed into 64 flats with prices starting at £325,000, giving the phrase “forever home” a whole new meaning.
The Old Portsmouth Gaol, once known as HMP Kingston in Portsmouth, Hampshire, has been transformed into opulent flats.
After the death penalty was abolished in 1965, only prisoners serving life sentences were held at the old lifers’ jail, which was first constructed in 1877.
Leslie Grantham, who later played the villainous “Dirty Den” on Eastenders, spent time there for shooting and killing a German taxi driver. Archibald Hall, a Scottish serial murderer, and Anthony Sawoniuk, a Nazi war criminal, are among the others.
The redevelopment project by St Cross Homes started in 2020, after the prison doors were shut for the last time in March 2013.
The flats have retained some of its original characteristics, such as their towering 19th-century facade and their conversion around the traditional “rotunda and wings” layout typical of Victorian jails.
Currently, a number of two-bedroom flats with assigned parking that cost between £250,000 and £325,000 are available.
The flats have retained some of its original characteristics, such as their towering 19th-century facade and their conversion around the traditional “rotunda and wings” layout typical of Victorian jails.
Additionally, the original window sills, stairway treads, interior balustrading, brickwork, entrances, and landing elements have all been preserved.
Modern handle-less soft-close doors and drawers are included in each apartment’s combined kitchen, living room, and dining area, which also has an integrated refrigerator/freezer, washer, and dryer.
The bathrooms have “clean lines,” which are supplemented by modern fixtures and wall and floor tiles that provide a marble-effect.
The decor of the bedrooms is equally modern and monochrome, with high-quality flooring, painted woodwork in white, and recessed lighting.
The structure has “developed into something pretty spectacular,” according to Martin Merrett, director of Bernards Estate Agents, who has been in charge of arranging the sale of the flats.
It was a lifers’ jail, so it definitely gives the expression “forever home” a new meaning, according to Martin from Portsmouth in Hampshire.
It has a lengthy history in and around Portsmouth, making it something of a local institution in both senses.
“What they’ve done down there is great.” What was once a vacant building has been transformed into something really spectacular.
Everyone who has seen the location is highly amazed by the historic vibe it still has with a contemporary touch.
We haven’t really had any problems selling the flats, but it has generated a lot of attention and is something of a talking point in the area.
The purchasers, in my opinion, are betting on having friendlier neighbors than the building was used to. Naturally, they will have unrestricted movement as well.
Chartered surveyors Chris Flint Associates oversaw the renovation of the original structure.
The chance to work on such a historic location was a “one-off,” according to director Chris Flint, who also claimed that for many prospective purchasers, “the jail is the major feature.”
It’s a one-off really; you probably wouldn’t discover one or two of them in a lifetime of employment, according to Chris from Portsmouth, Hampshire.
It’s been great, and we’ve worked hard with Portsmouth City Council’s planning division and conservation officer to preserve as much as we could while including a contemporary flat in what was a very historic structure.
It’s also a listed structure, so it’s been challenging, but the partnership with the council has helped move forward what was effectively a superfluous building.
It’s a very fantastic structure with old masonry and windowsills that is quite appealing from the outside. The architectural details is absolutely remarkable.
For me personally, you go from that connection to what transpired inside to one of a contemporary strategy. You enter what is now residential housing after leaving that jail.
The jail is the actual selling point, according to a number of folks I’ve talked to who are interested in purchasing.
Although there is a difference between the two, many people like the relationship. However, the purchasers unquestionably retain possession of their own keys.
According to a 2003 inspection report, Kingston’s senior prisoner unit was in an undesirable state due to a lack of privacy, inadequate natural light and ventilation, and mobility restrictions.
‘Portsmouth City Council is always willing to engage with partners to develop brownfield properties and protect the legacy of the city,’ said Ian Maguire, assistant director of regeneration at Portsmouth City Council.
Finding landowners and reputable developers that support the goals of our community and emulate the planning team’s devotion and commitment is crucial. I’m happy that it was accomplished at the HMP Kingston location.