Celebrating a major milestone
On 16 September 2026, Lawrence Sheriff Almshouses officially opened eleven remodelled almshouses and four newly built homes, celebrating the successful completion of an ambitious redevelopment project that will provide modern, energy-efficient and accessible homes for the future.
Years in the planning, the project was completed in July 2026. The Almshouse Association was pleased to contribute a £25,000 grant towards the enabling works, helping to pave the way for the remodelling of the eleven existing properties.
New block of four flats connecting to existing bungalow
Old plaque
New plaque
A phased approach shaped by residents’ feedback
Work began in early 2024, with the redevelopment delivered in four phases. The first phase, completed in July 2024, involved the remodelling of four bungalows.
Resident engagement was a priority throughout the project. Following the completion of this initial phase, one of the trustees, who is also a Citizens Advice adviser, visited residents to gather feedback and identify any teething problems. Their experiences helped inform subsequent phases, allowing any issues to be addressed as the work progressed.
A further five bungalows were completed in January 2025, followed by the final two in June 2025. These last two properties have been designed to be fully accessible, helping to meet the needs of residents with differing mobility requirements.
Modern, energy-efficient homes
Gathering for the opening ceremony
The remodelled bungalows provide residents with comfortable, energy-efficient homes that meet contemporary living standards. Improved insulation and the installation of solar panels help reduce energy consumption, while newly landscaped gardens offer attractive outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy.
With the existing properties transformed, the trustees turned their attention to the final phase in mid-September 2025: building four additional almshouses. Two of the new homes have been designed to be fully accessible, and all four were completed in early August 2026.
Partnership and support bring the vision to life
Delivering a redevelopment project of this scale would not have been possible without the combined support of a range of organisations. Funding was provided by Homes England, Charity Bank, Rugby Borough Council, Warwickshire County Council, Rugby School, Baron Davenport’s Charity and The Almshouse Association.
Their collective contribution helped turn the trustees’ vision into reality, ensuring that the almshouses can continue to provide high-quality homes for the community.
Celebrating a successful transformation
The opening celebration on 16 September 2026 brought together residents, project partners, supporters and members of the local community to mark this important milestone.
Trustee Jerry Roodhouse alongside David Burgess, owner of Batchelors Builders (main contractor) and Jeff Scoffham, architect for the project with one of the benches hand made by a local carpenter
Unveiling of the plaque in the presence of Rugby mayor, Nooria Sayani.
The occasion recognised not only the transformation of the almshouses, but also the collaboration, dedication and commitment of everyone involved. The completed redevelopment represents a significant investment in the future, providing modern, energy-efficient and accessible homes while continuing the charitable purpose of Lawrence Sheriff Almshouses for generations to come.
Photos credit: trustees of Lawrence Sheriff Almshouses
posted 28 October 2026