Former nurse officially opens Selly Oak Hospital redevelopment
13 June 2022
Valerie Arthur, who worked in the Rheumatology Department and is now author of a fascinating book on the history of the hospital, cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the last eight apartments at Ellis Court, bespoke one and two-bedroom properties within the original central block of the former infirmary.
The development is a jewel in the crown of award-winning Charles Church and brings to a close the construction of 595 properties over seven years by Charles Church and sister brand Persimmon Homes.
Valerie and her friend Ruth Clarke, who used to be a physiotherapist at Selly Oak Hospital, were given a tour of the building by our technical director Nick Wilkins, senior site manager Steve Powis and sales director Sarah Preston.
Valerie said: “Thank you so much to Charles Church for inviting me to such an occasion. It was really good to look around the building, but difficult to remember exactly how it used to be – although more memories now keep returning.”
Sarah Preston, Central region Sales Director, said: “We are so, so proud to have not only retained the iconic red brick building that was the front of Selly Oak Hospital, but to have breathed new life into it in our exclusive collection of modern apartments.
“We were delighted when Valerie was able to join us for the official opening, as it brings the history of this iconic building full circle.”
And she added: “The proximity of Ellis Court to the QE Hospital and the university, as well as the high-spec of our fixtures and fittings, gives us a real point of difference over other accommodation and is already attracting some discerning customers.”
Originally a Victorian workhouse infirmary, the handsomely striking building at the heart of Ellis Court is now an exclusive collection of modern apartments in a stunning garden setting. It is named after Dr Frederick William Ellis, chief medical officer at the hospital over a century ago, who was lauded for his care and rehabilitation of the city’s sick and elderly citizens.
The beautiful grounds are reminiscent of London’s private communal gardens, while detailed thought has gone into the layout and design of the development to ensure it meets the exacting standards of young professionals.
Just a short walk from the buzz of Selly Oak High Street, with its independent cafes and chic University-Quarter vibe, Ellis Court features beautifully-equipped modern apartments offering contemporary, open-plan living spaces together with spacious bedroom, bathroom and storage facilities. Prices start at £202,500.
Signed copies of A History of Selly Oak Hospital by Valerie Arthur are available to buy for £10 via Amazon.
The book begins with a Foreword by consultant rheumatologist Dr Ronal Jubb that says: “Since 2012, Selly Oak Hospital has sheltered behind a two-metre-high vandal-proof fence. The clinical services have moved a mile to the new QE Hospital in Edgbaston. The original hospital, built in 1897, is due for demolition and the future of the older buildings, part of the original workhouse, remains uncertain. These Victorian monuments have served the people of South Birmingham and beyond for the past 140 years but in a few years’ time there will be little physical evidence left.”