Angel property - Case Study : the Jam factory

The Challenge
The conversion and redevelopment of the 285,000 sq ft historic Hartley's Jam Factory was a major challenge both architecturally and logistically. When purchased in 1999 the buildings were dilapidated and used mainly for storage. There had been a major fire in one of the blocks. Over 30 existing tenants had to be vacated. Planning was needed which allowed both flexibility and value to be obtained. The buildings were neither listed or in a conservation area.

The Solution
A full professional team was engaged. Led by Ian Simpson Architects who in conjunction with leading planning consultants and Angel Property's senior management achieved a planning consent only five months after the initial exchange of contracts to buy the property. Local residents and the local authority were consulted during this period. The consent and related S.106 agreement provided for phasing and gave certain spaces the ability to be used as offices or live-work with no restriction. Enabling works and preliminary construction packages were let by Angel Property directly prior to the selection of Mansell as main contractor. Eight different designers were chosen for the fit-out stage giving the diversity that you now see.

The Result
All the lofts, penthouses and live/work spaces embrace the very latest features to make life easier - be it for personal or business use. They all have broadband internet access,
an internal intranet system to create an online community and concierge. There is underground parking for over 150 cars. Many of the units were offered as shells providing the potential for one-off interiors and offering the ability to create spaces tailored to individual needs.

Marketing commenced as planned on October 11 2001, only one month after the calamitous events in New York. However the scheme has been extremely well received, the first phase having a value of over £60 million has been sold out and the project should be completed in 2004.