Former Nurse Officially Opens Selly Oak Hospital Redevelopment

A former nurse at Selly Oak Hospital was the guest of honour at the official opening of a contemporary redevelopment of the 125-year-old building.

Valerie Arthur, who worked in the Rheumatology Department and is now author of a fascinating book on the history of the hospital, cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the last eight apartments at Ellis Court, bespoke one- and two-bedroom properties within the original central block of the former infirmary.

The development brings to a close the construction of 595 properties over seven years by housebuilder Charles Church and sister brand Persimmon Homes.

Valerie and her friend Ruth Clarke, who used to be a physiotherapist at the Hospital, were given a tour of the building by Charles Church technical director Nick Wilkins, senior site manager Steve Powis and sales director Sarah Preston.

Valerie said: “Thank you so much to Charles Church for inviting me to such an occasion. It was really good to look around the building, but difficult to remember exactly how it used to be – although more memories now keep returning.”

Sarah Preston said: “We are so, so proud to have not only retained the iconic red brick building that was the front of Selly Oak Hospital, but to have breathed new life into it in our exclusive collection of modern apartments. We were delighted when Valerie was able to join us for the official opening, as it brings the history of this iconic building full circle.”

And she added: “The proximity of Ellis Court to the QE Hospital and the university, as well as the high-spec of our fixtures and fittings, gives us a real point of difference over other accommodation and is already attracting some discerning customers.”

Originally a Victorian workhouse infirmary, the handsomely striking building at the heart of Ellis Court is now an exclusive collection of modern apartments in a garden setting. It is named after Dr Frederick William Ellis, chief medical officer at the hospital over a century ago, who was lauded for his care and rehabilitation of the city’s sick and elderly citizens.

The beautiful grounds are reminiscent of London’s private communal gardens, while detailed thought has gone into the layout and design of the development to ensure it meets the exacting standards of young professionals.

Just a short walk from the buzz of Selly Oak High Street, with its independent cafés and chic Jewellery Quarter vibe, Ellis Court features modern apartments offering contemporary, open-plan living spaces together with spacious bedroom, bathroom and storage facilities. Prices start at £202,500. Find out more from Charles Church.

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