Studio Architects: REFURBISHMENT & CONVERSION

The building known as ‘The Old Dispensary’ at 30 Romford Road, E15 was built around 1700 as a private house, and after use by different occupiers became the West Ham, Stratford and South Essex Dispensary in the 1860s.

Several years after acquisition of the building by the Council, restoration and conversion work was undertaken during 1989-90 to designs by Julian Harrap Architects to provide the Museums Service with an administrative base.

Although these facilities have been valuable to the Borough, the current closure of the Manor Road Museum, and formation of new upgraded space within 30 Romford Road is seen as an important step towards securing improved facilities for Newham.

The building is constructed with an oak frame and with timber floor and roof structure over three storeys including the attic. The remains of an even older structure are evident in the Basement, including some of Roman origin.

The building has a Grade 2 listed status, being one of only three listed buildings in Newham. Proposals for work to accommodate the Museums requirements were undertaken in consultation with the Planning and Conservation department.

Improvements have included powered entrance doors, and ramps for disabled access, refurbished structural floors and stairs, and new mechanical and electrical installations to provide efficient heating and lighting, with improved data distribution for the new IT facilities.