Stone Edge Conservation gave a facelift to part of St James’ Hospital in Milton, Portsmouth, helping to preserve it through extensive conservation work.

Work involved the conservation of red brick in English bond with limestone dressings. The external fabric conservation works ran for 24 weeks.

Originally designed by architect George Rake in c1878, St James’ Hospital is one of a number of psychiatric hospitals affected by NHS reforms. The hospital is being gradually closed as new community based facilities are developed to re-provide services. Some of the hospital is considered by the council to be of high enough quality to need protecting.

Work was carried out whilst the building was in full occupation, and under the watchful eye of the local Conservation Officer.