CASE STUDY: Preserving heritage, embracing sustainability: How a 16th-Century Derbyshire almshouse charity secured Section 106 funding and modernised for a low-carbon future.

Overview

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse in Derbyshire, a Grade-listed building with over four centuries of history, recently underwent a transformative refurbishment to preserve its legacy while aligning with contemporary energy efficiency standards. Spearheaded by The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity, the project secured £400,000 through Section 106 funding to revitalise the building’s four flats and future-proof its infrastructure with cutting-edge, sustainable technologies. The securing of Section 106 funding is particularly noteworthy, as almshouse charities that are not registered providers often face significant challenges in accessing these funds.

Background

Built over 440 years ago, the almshouse has served the local community for generations. Despite its historical significance, it fell into serious disrepair by the mid-20th century. In 1958, Derbyshire authorities deemed it unfit for public investment. Sporadic maintenance continued for decades until the charity’s trustees, recognising the need for a complete overhaul, approached Derbyshire Dales District Council in 2022 to initiate a comprehensive renovation.

The vision: to transform the building into a model of low-carbon, affordable housing—while honouring its historical character.

Securing the Funding

Initial discussions with the District Authority began in early 2022, presenting both the pressing need for affordable housing in the region and the unique opportunity to restore a heritage asset. In December 2023, this culminated in a ÂŁ400,000 grant awarded through Section 106 funds, with key backing from Rob Cogings, Director of Housing at the District Council.

“The Council is pleased to have worked in partnership with the almshouse charity to secure the long-term future of the four flats and significantly improve the energy efficiency of the homes,” said Cogings.
“It is great to see these historic homes given a new lease of life.”

To support the bid, the Council also funded extensive expert consultations—from heritage specialists to building engineers—and appointed an architect to oversee the works, ensuring compliance with conservation standards while enabling modern upgrades.

The renovation process

Construction Phase Launch:
Work began in December 2023, guided by a detailed project plan and pre-agreed contracts. Key milestones included:

  • Thermal efficiency upgrades: Original internal plaster was removed from exterior walls and replaced with high-performance insulating plaster. Despite cold and damp conditions, residents noticed immediate warmth.
  • Air source heat pump installation: A new, low-carbon heating system was introduced using an air source heat pump, with individual immersion heaters in each flat for hot water needs.
  • Ventilation an heat recovery systems: Each flat received an independent mechanical ventilation and heat recovery unit to retain heat while managing airflow.
  • Double glazing: All windows were replaced with modern double-glazed units to eliminate draughts and improve thermal performance.
  • Interior modernisation: New kitchens and bathrooms were fitted to improve residents’ comfort and quality of life.

While conservation restrictions prevented the installation of solar panels, the overall energy transformation was significant.

Impact and outcomes

A post-renovation energy performance evaluation revealed remarkable improvements:

  • COâ‚‚ Emissions Reduction: From 5.5 tonnes to 0.5 tonnes per flat per year – a 90% reduction.
  • Affordability: Heating costs for residents have dropped to manageable, affordable levels, supporting the building’s social mission.

Key lessons learned

  1. Expert advice is invaluable
    Engaging specialists—heritage experts, engineers, and architects—was crucial to ensuring compliance, innovation, and long-term resilience.
  2. Local Authority collaboration is key
    Active support and co-operation from planning authorities smoothed the path for approvals, funding, and project momentum.
  3. Heat pump installation requires flexibility
    Adapting space to house modern energy systems may require compromises—but the benefits in carbon savings are considerable.
  4. Resident adaptation must be supported
    Living in a well-insulated, airtight environment requires adjustment. Providing residents with education and ongoing support was essential.

Conclusion

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse project stands as a blueprint for balancing historic preservation with modern sustainability.

Thanks to thoughtful planning, collaborative governance, and strategic investment, this 16th-century institution is now poised to serve future generations—comfortably, affordably, and sustainably.

The legacy of Anthony Gell and Anthony Bunting lives on – not only in bricks and mortar, but in a forward-thinking vision of heritage housing reimagined for the 21st century.

posted 5 June 2025