King’s School Reveals its Historic Legacy

11
June, 2024

King’s School Reveals its Historic Legacy

Two unique heritage homes in a historic conversion

The soaring oak trusses of the original building at King’s School in Macclesfield have been restored and will form the centrepiece of a unique £1m mews home.

The vast open plan space will boast a bespoke kitchen, seating/entertainment area and will even have its own internal winter garden with giant olive and lemon trees.

At the other end of the room a glazed archway opens onto steps to a large formal courtyard with a private path leading to a wild garden area.

The bedrooms are on the ground floor with a large principal suite, a self- contained guest suite, and a third double bedroom. There is also a large study opening to the winter garden.

As well as being transformed inside, the outside of the Grade 2 listed building’s structure is also being lovingly brought back to its original glory. Stonemasons have skilfully replaced and repaired the original window openings and door frames and the original doors are being restored and will be re-used.

Group sales manager Gavin Pearce said: “There is such a historic legacy at King’s – imagine the doorway to your new home having been originally carved in 1844! Not many new homes can boast that.

“It really does give you tingles when you step through the entrance and walk up into the space.

“Right now, we are at a position where a prospective purchaser could help shape the space, maybe turning the study into an amazing walk-in dressing room or another bedroom or a nursery.

“The kitchen layout could be tweaked and there could even be a bar area if the client wanted. Really it is such a large and unique space the potential is endless.”

A second property is also available within the original building – this time with a more traditional layout but still with its fair share of gorgeous heritage features.

And again, the front door is truly special – in Gothic style and on its original chunky iron hinges and latch handle.

The door opens into a quaint porch then into the main open plan living / kitchen / dining space. Each area is clearly defined with lots of windows making it a light and bright space under high ceilings.

There is a rear utility room and power room with the turned staircase leading to the principal suite with split level bathroom, two more double bedrooms that angle up into the eaves and a house bathroom.

Again, as well as a courtyard the property has its own private wild garden accessed by the original stone steps – a secret oasis in the centre of town.

Gavin added: “As is so often the case when converting heritage buildings, the new homes we create are one-offs, totally unique and appeal to buyers looking for something out of the ordinary and completed to the latest and highest specifications.

“These are homes that can never be replicated in a location that is not only central to the history of Macclesfield but also completely practical – within walking distance of the independent shops and the train station.”

Seven reasons why Parbold village is a fantastic place to live

12
June, 2024

Seven reasons why Parbold village is a fantastic place to live

Nestled in the heart of West Lancashire, Parbold is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of rural tranquillity and convenient amenities.

It’s the location for The Retreat, our bespoke collection of 23 heritage properties and energy efficient new homes set within beautiful walled grounds and a series of tranquil gardens.

Whether you’re just considering a move or you have already taken the plunge, here are seven great reasons to make Parbold your home.

1. Stunning surroundings
Parbold is known for its picturesque landscapes. The village is surrounded by rolling hills, lush countryside and the serene Leeds-Liverpool canal.

The village offers breathtaking views over the West Lancashire Plain and, on a clear day, you can even get a view of the Welsh mountains, making it the perfect place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you like leisurely walks, picnics or cycling, the Fairy Glen is a fantastic woodland walk. Located on the side of Parbold Hill, it is home to cliff edges and spectacular waterfalls.

2. Community spirit
One of the standout features of Parbold is its strong sense of community.

The village hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Parbold Street Festival, local farmers’ markets and its annual Christmas festival. These events foster a sense of belonging and offer residents a chance to connect and celebrate their shared heritage.

The active village hall plays host to numerous classes and societies such as the Wildlife Club, WI, U3A as well as holding coffee mornings, movie screenings and concerts. There is always something happening and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

3. A bustling village centre
Despite its intimate village atmosphere, Parbold offers a wealth of amenities. The bustling village centre features a variety of independent shops, cafes and traditional pubs, such as The Windmill and The Stocks Tavern, where visitors can enjoy a warm meal and a friendly chat.

Enjoy an artisan lunch overlooking the canal at Yours Is The Earth or explore a collection of curated wines at the Margot Wine Bar & Eatery, before taking a stroll around the Mill House Gallery.

Elsewhere, local services such as the library, medical centre and sports facilities cater to the needs of the community, ensuring everything you need is right on the doorstep.

4. Excellent local schools
Parbold boasts some outstanding educational institutions. Both Our Lady & All Saints Catholic Primary School and Parbold Douglas CofE Academy (within a short walk of The Retreat) are rated Outstanding by Ofsted and have excellent reputations for their community involvement. This makes Parbold an ideal choice for families with children.

5. Convenient transport links
Despite its rural charm, Parbold is well-connected. The village’s train station offers regular services to major cities like Liverpool or Manchester, meaning you can go door-to-door to either within an hour … ideal for commuters. Also, the M6 motorway is just a few miles down the road, allowing easy access to other parts of the UK. For those who prefer to stay local, a good network of buses and cycle paths makes getting around the area straightforward and convenient.

6. A rich history
Parbold is steeped in history, with roots dating back to medieval times. The village’s historic buildings, such as the iconic Parbold Windmill and the old St Peter’s Church, add a unique charm to the area. Exploring the village’s heritage through local museums and historical sites provides residents with a deep connection to the past.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Lancashire village without a nod to the history of hard-won rights. On the far side of Parbold Hill is the Parbold Bottle, a monument commemorating the passing of the Great Reform Act, which started the process of giving ordinary people the right to vote.

7. Parks and Recreation
Parbold is surrounded by several natural reserves and parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Beacon Country Park offers extensive walking paths, picnic areas and a golf course, making it a favourite place for locals to unwind and enjoy nature.

Living in Parbold means enjoying the best of both worlds: the peace and beauty of the countryside with the convenience of urban amenities. Its strong community spirit, excellent schools, rich history and vibrant social scene make it an ideal place to call home.

Whether you’re drawn to its scenic landscapes or its friendly atmosphere, Parbold has something for everyone.

Register an interest now for early VIP access to The Retreat details when they’re released.

First Apartments released at Kings Gate, Macclesfield

19
April, 2024

First Apartments released

Beautifully converted homes at our latest development King’s Gate, Macclesfield

Work has begun on the conversion of the largest building within our King’s Gate development in Macclesfield into a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses.

In response to customer demand we are releasing preview information for the first six apartments to be made available within The Residence. These details are being given out exclusively to registered buyers who will also be given the opportunity to attend our VIP preview event, to discuss the release with our dedicated sales team.

The iconic school building now to be known as The Residence, will host a total of 24 apartments and penthouses. Each plot will feature spacious living areas, bespoke kitchens, outside spaces and dedicated parking – Prices starting from £229,950.

Group sales manager Gavin Pearce, said: “The first phases of new build houses at King’s Gate have been incredibly well received with only three mews properties now available.

“Three of the six unique houses converted from the original Grade 2 listed Library building have been sold and we wanted to try and meet the demand of other buyers who want to be part of the development by releasing apartments in the main building.

“Buyers will be guided through the detailed plans of the building and individual layouts and will be able to see examples of fixtures and specification.”

King’s Gate is set around a central green area with the original commemorative gates now restored and reinstalled at the entrance to the development.

For more information or to receive The Residence preview information, please register your interest in the King’s Gate, Macclesfield development.

First Awards from our Community Green Fund

09
April, 2024

First Awards from our Community Green Fund

We are delighted to announce the first recipients of funding

We are delighted to announce the first recipients of funding from the Ralph Brocklehurst Legacy Fund helping communities improve and maintain their green spaces.

Both projects are in Parbold, close to our latest development, and will enable volunteer residents to brighten their local area this spring and summer.

The first award of £500 will let the Friends of Parbold Station buy a new tiered planter and the plants to fill it for the Southport-bound side of the station.

John Sloane, from the Group said: “Following the removal of a passenger shelter we need a new focal point for the platform and this award will help us provide that.

“We are all incredibly proud of our station in Parbold which is well used by the local community and we want to keep it a bright and colourful place. We are delighted to have the support of the PJ Livesey Group, through the Ralph Brocklehurst Fund, to help us do that.”

The second award of £200 will allow a small but dedicated group of volunteers buy materials and tools for the maintenance of public gardens in Parbold.

The Parbold Tree Warden Group regularly take part in weeding, planting, pruning and litter-picking to make sure the village’s gardens and verges, particularly around protected trees, are looking their best.

The Group needs funds to buy more equipment for their volunteers.

Managing director Georgina Lynch said: “We are really pleased to announce the first recipients and I am sure Ralph would have been delighted to know of the work being done in his name.

“We look forward to receiving more applications to the Fund from charitable groups within five miles of our current developments in Sheffield, Portsmouth and Stroud as well as Parbold.”

Lancaster House on Lancaster Lane was built in 1845 for local industrialist Hugh Ainscough, it was used by the family up until 1929 when it was first rented, then purchased, by The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur UK, who occupied the 6.5-acre site up until 2021.

The main house is being converted into four grand apartments, while the stable block will become five new homes. Thirteen new build properties are being built within the grounds.

Georgina added: “The gardens of Lancaster House are just as important as the buildings and are being restored and improved to create a place of peace and tranquillity which residents will be able to enjoy.”

To learn more about the Ralph Brocklehurst Fund and how to apply please CLICK HERE

Last Chance to Buy at Award Winning Development

05
April, 2024

Last Chance to Buy at Moor Park

Our award winning Lancaster development, situated at the edge of the Forest of Bowland

Our conversion of the former Lancaster Moor Hospital not only saved a commanding heritage building for the city it also allowed the creation of a small development of new build homes on lower section of the site.

Behind a stone wall and next to the open green space of a former cricket field, Moor Park offers families a unique lifestyle just ten minutes from the city centre.

Now the final property is almost complete and has just been released for sale.

It is a wonderful opportunity to buy a brand new, beautifully designed home within an already established community.

Group sales manager Gavin Pearce said: “Lancaster Moor and Moor Park has always been one of our most admired and aspirational developments and hugely popular with a range of buyers.

“It’s on the edge of magnificent countryside in the Trough of Bowland yet with easy access by car or bus into Lancaster with great schools close by – it even has its own corner shop!

“The final property is bespoke for the plot, mixing mellow stone and timber with sharp render and it really is a beautiful house – outside and in.”

The one of a kind Evenholme is available at £499,950

It offers three generous double bedrooms, the principal with its own en-suite shower room and characterful bay window. A fourth single bedroom would be ideal for a nursery or home-office/study.

The ground floor offers the perfect lay-out for modern family living with a huge open plan kitchen/living/dining areas with French doors leading out onto private outside space. A large utility room, downstairs cloakroom and generous storage room provide practicality.

For quieter moments or shared family TV time there is a separate generous living room.

The property also has a single garage and parking.

Gavin added: “This is no run of the mill new build home – it offers space and style and the highest specification in the bathrooms and in the kitchen. We always pride ourselves on creating bespoke high-quality properties and the Evenholme is exceptional.”

The property is available to view – For more information or to book a viewing call Gavin on 0800 151 0960 (option 9)

Remaking History at Kings Gate Macclesfield

14
March, 2024

Remaking History at Kings Gate Macclesfield

We love seeing the reaction from customers when we reveal the transformed spaces

We love giving new life to old buildings and we love seeing the reaction from customers when we reveal the transformed spaces.

At Kings Gate in Macclesfield we are turning the original school building and headmasters house into six unique homes that can never again be replicated.

The homes were launched at a special VIP preview event for customers who had registered interest and there was a fantastic response and appreciation of the thought and skill that has gone into each of these special properties.

Group sales manager Gavin Pearce said: “Bespoke properties deserve bespoke sales and we take time to talk buyers through the character and individual layouts which are far from the standard identikit box. “People were very complimentary to the design and the layout and the retention of historic detail. “The entire team came together to answer any questions and help buyers fully appreciate the spaces and the lifestyle on offer and we are delighted that one of the properties has been reserved with strong interest in the others.”

The entire PJ Livesey  team is incredibly proud of the way King’s Gate is maturing with the first phases of new build homes complete and residents looking forward to their first summer enjoying the location and the green and open space.

Gavin added: “It is a very happy site with residents appreciating the mix of old and new homes and the setting around the cricket pitch.

“They are proud to be part of this much loved and historic site and proud that the original school gates have been restored and reinstated on site.”

The site’s original gatehouse is now a dedicated marketing suite and in itself a showcase for the quality of finish and attention to detail we put into every property we build.

If you want to learn more about any of the five library conversion properties please contact Gavin on 0800 151 0960