Coventry's "hidden architectural jewel' up for sale

A ‘hidden architectural jewel’ in Coventry which dates back more than 700 years has been put up for sale.



The Charterhouse, which lies just yards off the main London Road, is about to enter the property market after being used as a training venue by City College since 1989.

The Grade I listed building, which is a Scheduled Monument, is one of Coventry’s oldest and most prized buildings – having originally been part of the Carthusian Priory of St Anne, founded in 1381.

During its lifetime the building has been used as a private house, an old people’s home, an arts centre and a training venue for the college. Due to the property being subject to a charitable scheme, there are restrictions that the building can only be used for teaching and for ‘an appreciation of the arts’.

David Penn, managing director of Coventry estate agents Shortland Penn + Moore, said: “This is, simply, one of the most historically impressive and important buildings in the city and is of national interest.

“There are around 500,000 listed buildings in the UK, and only two per cent of them have Grade I status.

“Yet I would think that the majority of people who live in the city or the thousands that drive past its entrance every day do not realise it exists. Quite rightly because of its historical importance, there are restrictions on its use, but we are very confident that we will be able to find a buyer who will be fully sympathetic to its amazing past.”

Its rich history spans back to when King Richard II laid the foundation stone of the Priory, which was partially demolished after the Dissolution of the Monasteries during the reign of Henry VIII.

But significant parts of the medieval building remain. The property includes the original Priors lodging, dating back to the 15th century, and 16th century half-timbered buildings which were added when it was used as a private house.

Original moulded stone fireplaces and some original stone tracery and stone corbels still exist along with wooden panelling, believed to date from Elizabethan times.

But the most celebrated features of the building are the medieval wall paintings which depict the crucifixion, and paintings which feature early renaissance motifs.

Mr Penn added: “The status of the building means that all the major features must be retained and it is unlikely that any extensions would ever be allowed.

“Buildings are often described as unique but in more than 20 years as a surveyor this is unquestionably the most interesting building I have ever worked with. It is quite amazing.”

Councillors back campaign to save Coventry's Charterhouse

TWO Coventry councillors have pledged their support to a campaign to save one of the city’s most historic buildings from being sold.



Coun Jim O’Boyle and Coun Dave Nellist have joined the fight to return Charterhouse to the people of Coventry, after it was revealed last week that owners City College plan to sell it off.

The pair have spoken out after local business leaders and historians called for the London Road building to be restored into a museum and park – providing full public access for the first time in its history.

A Trust has been set up to save the Charterhouse building, a Grade I listed building originally part of the Carthusian Priory of St Anne, founded in 1381.

Coun Nellist, of St Michael’s ward, said: “The Charterhouse buildings and surrounding land were given back to the people of Coventry 70 years ago, in the will of Colonel Wyley, as a museum and public park.

“They were then transferred to Tile Hill College just over 20 years ago when, under the last Conservative government, further education colleges became separate businesses.

“If the City College now no longer wants the building, it should revert back to public ownership – not be sold on the open market for a profit.

“It was originally given to the people of Coventry, and it should be returned to them.

“I met with senior college management last year to discuss community involvement in the running of the building and, with the Charterhouse Residents’ Association, arranged a special meeting to discuss the college’s proposals.

“But this ‘For Sale’ notice has come out of the blue, with no consultation with local people whatsoever. It’s outrageous. I have written to the college asking them to withdraw the property.

“If they do not, I will be meeting with residents over the next few days to rally opposition to this sale, and for a solution that keeps this historic building for the people of our city.”

Coun O’Boyle, of St Michael’s ward, is also calling for the building to be retained for the use of the public and has asked the city council for its help in doing so.

He added: “There are covenants on the building which mean it can only be used for education or museum use. I would hope that as it was once in public hands the building can be returned to a public body once again.

“I have also spoken with the principle of City College who has assured me that the college are not doing this to make a ‘fast buck’ but want to be socially responsible and are determined to make sure that the new owner has the best interests of the building and the best interests of the people of Coventry at their heart.”