New retriment village unveiled at Binswood Hall in Leamington

Audley Binswood, the new development from Audley Retirement Villages, was officially unveiled by Lady Willoughy de Broke during a VIP reception at the Grade II* listed site on Thursday.

The event was attended by more than 250 guests, including Leamington Mayor Cllr Judith Clarke and warwick District Council chairman Cllr Clare Sawdon.

Nich Sanderson, chief executive officer for Audley Retirement, said: ““We are pleased to open this magnificent building to another generation of inhabitants and are proud of the hard work that countless people have put in to ensure that Binswood Hall remains one of the jewels of Leamington.”

“Retirement as we have known it is changing and as we break away from the past we must meet the ambitions and not just the needs of a discerning and growing demographic. “Audley’s proposition is based, first and foremost, on what our customer wants and to ensure they can live independently and on their own terms. We have an ageing population in this country and to successfully navigate this shift we must – society, government and industry - change our way of thinking and bring innovative solutions to the fore.”

The village is home to 90 apartments for people aged 55 and over as well as the Audley Club which includes Whittle’s restaurant named in honour of jet engine inventor Sir Frank Whittle who was a pupil of the former Leamington College which was once based at Binswood Hall.

Other features include an elegant lounge bar, a library, swimming pool, health and wellbeing centre and a hair salon.

All the facilities are available to residents and limited places are available to those living nearby.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments, which make up the first stage of the development, have now been sold.

Built in 1847, Bisnwood Hall was inspired by Hampton Court Palace, with pattern brickwork, Bath and Caen stone dressings and projecting octagonal turrets.

It was most recently used by North Leamington School’s sixth form.

Lady Willoughby de Broke, chairman of the patrons and supporters scheme for the nearby Compton Verney art gallery said: “It is magnificent to see buildings such as Binswood Hall given a new purpose and restored to their full and proper glory.

“Warwickshire is home to some of Britain’s most beautiful buildings which must be protected and shared. Audley and I share a commitment to maintaining the architectural heritage and beauty of our stately homes. It is heartening to know that a bright future has been secured for Binswood Hall and those who will live here.”