This 11ha site, dominated by a Grade I listed 16th Century Manor House and formerly a public school, needed to find a new viable long-term use that could support its restoration and protect its heritage assets for the future.

We were able to make a strong case to Historic England and Test Valley Borough Council that the proposal offered the best use of the site, without causing undue harm or disruption to the site, surrounding area or resident wildlife. tor&co worked with LifeCare Residences securing planning and listed building consent to convert the manor house and extensive grounds into a first-class continuing care retirement village.

A clear planning strategy, sensitive design approach, and comprehensive heritage statement was developed to justify both the restoration of the manor house and the addition of 115 care units set within the historic grounds.

Grove Place Retirement Village opened in 2009, providing high quality accommodation and care for its elderly community, and careful restoration of the grounds means they can be enjoyed by local residents.