Fletton House Celebrates New Lease of Life

A FORMER hospital and workhouse in Oundle that has sat empty for decades now has a new lease of life thanks to a scheme delivered by Jeakins Weir and the East Midlands Property Alliance (empa).

Fletton House will act as a community hub offering space for local groups, youth clubs, pre-school activities and council workers now the £778,000 construction project is complete.

The two–storey extension, in-depth internal and external refurbishment and new dance studio was officially unveiled at a ceremony (2 December) with the Mayor Paul King and local dignitaries.

The project was delivered on behalf of Oundle Town Council through the empa framework which works with public-sector bodies to save them, and the taxpayer, money on construction projects.

Cllr Anne Fitzgerald for Oundle Town Council said she was pleased to see this much-loved building back in use.

"I am thrilled to see Fletton House put back to such good use. This building has been part of the local community for such a long time and now can be used as a space for people of all ages.

"The work has been completed to a very high standard by Jeakins Weir, thank you to the team and empa for our new facility."

Mayor Paul King also commented: "I'm really grateful for the hard work of everyone in the community who has helped turn the vision of Fletton House into a reality. The finished product is fantastic and will play a big part in the community's future."

Alistair Weir, managing director for Jeakins Weir said: "Fletton House has been transformed with an extension and major works inside and out including new heating, electrics, plumbing and gas works, as well as new doors, windows and exterior works to the building and roof. We completed the works in 42 weeks and I am delighted to see the building being put to good use."

Alan Coole, head of empa said: "Helping public-sector organisations like Oundle Town Council make use of old buildings and restore them into something of use for the community is something we're very familiar with at empa. We are committed to delivering construction projects that help local authorities save money and have real and lasting impact to communities."

Photograph: L-R Mayor Cllr Paul King, Cllr Ann Fitzgerald & Alistair Weir MD Jeakins Weir