Nuns propose conversion of convent into flats for key workers

By Robert Firth, Local Democracy Reporter

South London nuns plan to convert part of their convent into flats for key workers including nurses and teachers.

Sisters of the Holy Family Convent have submitted plans to Lambeth council to change a Grade-II listed terrace in Stockwell into five apartments set across separate floors.

The convent’s numbers have dwindled in recent years, resulting in the building becoming empty, and the nuns want to make better use of the space. The sisters would remain living in a property next door to the proposed apartment building in Albert Square, which would be separated from the new apartments.

According to documents submitted to the council, the conversion is expected to cost up to £2 million. As part of the refurbishment, sprinklers and an evacuation lift would be fitted in the property, the rear roofs would be replaced and solar panels would be installed. Each of the five flats would contain a kitchen and en-suite bathroom.

Albert Square is one of Stockwell’s poshest streets. The large Victorian terraces in the square regularly sell for millions. In 2021, a five-bedroom detached house on Albert Square sold for £3.25 million. In the same year, a one-bedroom flat in the square was snapped up for £425,000.

The square’s Grade-II listed terraces were built between 1846 and 1849. They are set around picturesque gardens and just a 10-minute walk from Stockwell Tube station.

Pictured top: Part of the Holy Family Convent in Albert Square, Stockwell could be converted into flats (Picture: Google Street View)