TORUS Group held a special event to mark the grand reopening of Kingsway House following an extensive £6.4 million refurbishment.
This transformative project turned a 1960’s nine-story building into 53 modern, 17 one – and 37 two-bedroom social rent apartments.
A special ceremony, involving Warrington Mayor Councillor Steve Wright and MP, Andy Carter, Torus colleagues and other special guests, marked the occasion.
L-R Councillor Karen Mundry, Mayor of Warrington Councillor Steve Wright, Andy Carter MP, and Steve Coffey, Torus Group CEO Picture by Gareth Jones
The project, funded by various sources, including Torus Group, the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF), Homes England, and the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service, highlights Torus’ commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Approximately £510,000 from SHDF was used for energy efficiency improvements, including the installation of an Air Source Heat Pump, External Wall Insulation, and Ventilation.
The refurbishment – completed by award-winning local contractor, HMS – included the transformation of 51 original flats and the creation of two new apartments, installation of new kitchens, bathrooms, and open-plan living areas, enhanced waste management systems, new passenger lifts, and an overhaul of communal areas.
Externally works included the addition of balconies, a roof replacement, demolition of unused garages, and creation of new parking spaces and removal of garages to create additional parking spaces.
The works also align with Warrington Borough Council’s Regeneration Masterplan which aims to bring communities within the area together to achieve a cleaner, greener, healthier Central area for Warrington.
Energy Efficiency and Safety
Energy efficiency and safety were paramount in the refurbishment, with the inclusion of an External Wall Insulation System for improved thermal insulation, new roofing, and an Air Source Heat Pump for efficient heating. Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service played a crucial role in implementing fire safety solutions, including the grant-funded installation of sprinklers.
Strong relationships were also fostered between the site team and tenants, involving them in development plans and discussions around improved landscaping and the planting of additional trees.
Steve Coffey, Torus Group CEO, said: “The transformation of this local landmark is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact on local housing, sustainability, and community welfare.
“Throughout this project, our ‘One Torus’ approach has been evident, with close collaboration among teams from across the Group.
“This comprehensive refurbishment is not just about modernising a building; it is about revitalising existing structures, focusing on sustainability, and providing affordable housing solutions in high-demand areas.”
Paul Worthington, Managing Director of HMS – the contractor in charge of regenerating Kingsway House – said: “To see Kingsway House complete and to be stood here celebrating the start of a new future for the building is fantastic. This is the largest refurbishment project HMS has ever undertaken and I’m so proud of its transformation and of how it showcases our commitment to become a greener, more efficient, and sustainable contractor.
“This is very much the start of our journey, but Kingsway House is now very much an exemplar of how we will be using new technologies and materials across our construction programme to further enhance Torus homes for its tenants and communities.”
Warrington Mayor, Councillor Steve Wright, said: “I’m delighted to officially re-open Kingsway House following its refurbishment. It has provided a good opportunity to learn more about the significant improvements made for the residents of the building, including enhanced safety and energy efficiency features.”
Top Picture shows Front row L-R Charlotte Stenhouse (Area Housing Manager, Torus Group), Catherine Murray-Howard (Chief Operating Officer, Torus Group), Councillor Karen Mundry, Mayor of Warrington Councillor Steve Wright, Andy Carter MP, Lee McGarity (Group Manager, Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service), and Councillor Brian Gallagher
High rise flats protected from fire thanks to £36,000 sprinkler investment
