Planning approved for the redevelopment of former office building into key worker accommodation

Released through the council’s asset management strategy, the site offers an opportunity for Prime to provide new homes for key workers within easy walking distance of Musgrove Park Hospital. This office to residential conversion will repurpose the building that no longer serves its original function to create lasting community benefit.

Rather than replacing what is already there, our design focuses on retaining, repurposing and carefully upgrading the building, giving it a clear new role while respecting its relationship with the neighbouring Grade II listed Block A. As the building transitions into residential use, our approach responds to the requirements of a higher-risk building, embedding fire safety, compliance and robust design thinking from the outset. 

Reimagining Block C for a low-carbon future 

The redevelopment will improve thermal performance and reduce energy demand, while supporting a healthier, more comfortable internal environment for key workers. A fabric first approach sits at the heart of the design, with upgraded insulation, improved airtightness and sensitive enhancements to the building’s existing structure helping to make better use of what is already there. 

Our approach will reduce waste, retain embodied carbon and extend the life of the well constructed asset from the 1960s and 1970s, while creating much needed homes without the need for a new build scheme. 

Homes shaped around everyday lives

We have prioritised comfort, safety and a sense of control to support everyday wellbeing, something especially important for key workers. This is achieved through homes designed to maximise natural light, with comfortable, well planned spaces and improved insulation to help reduce energy use. Accessibility is carefully integrated throughout, with layouts that feel intuitive and easy to move through. Enhanced fire safety, secure cycle storage, new windows and upgraded cladding all contribute to homes that feel safe, practical and well considered.

Central to the redevelopment is creating flexible, easy to use living spaces that support day to day life. By working with generous open plan floorplans and the existing reinforced concrete frame, we are able to take advantage of inherent structural flexibility, allowing each home to be organised around light and easy movement. Layouts have been developed through a responsive design process, shaped by ongoing conversations with stakeholders and a clear focus on creating spaces that feel accessible and appropriate for the people who will live in them.

We’re pleased to see the project moving closer to delivering much needed homes for key workers in Taunton and ready for future operators, Hyve by Prime.

Centred on reuse, community benefit and long term value, the redevelopment will support local people while giving an important town centre asset a renewed purpose. Discover more about Block C, County Hall, Taunton