Nuns set to turn convent into flats for key workers in one of south London’s most sought-after markets

Nuns in south London are to convert part of their convent into flats for key workers such as nurses and teachers.

The Sisters of the Holy Family Convent have submitted plans to Lambeth Council to convert a Grade II listed terrace in Stockwell into five flats on separate floors.

The religious community has seen a decline in numbers over the years, leaving the building empty, and the nuns want to make better use of the space. The sisters would remain living in a property next to the proposed apartment building in Albert Square.

According to documents presented to the council, the conversion is expected to cost up to £2 million. As part of the renovation, sprinklers and an evacuation elevator would be installed in the property. The block of flats would be separated from the neighboring property, where the mothers would remain.

Maintenance work would also be carried out at the building according to the plans. Rear roofs will be replaced and solar panels will be installed. Each of the five apartments would contain a kitchen and a private bathroom.

Albert Square is one of the most elegant streets in Stockwell. Large Victorian terraces on the market regularly sell for millions. In 2021, a five-bedroom detached house in Albert Square sold for £3.25 million. In the same year, a one-bedroom flat on the market was bought for £425,000.

The Grade II listed Market Terraces were built between 1846 and 1849. They are set around picturesque gardens and just 10 minutes’ walk from Stockwell tube station.