SHERBORNE’S St Johns’ Almshouse is to be remodelled in an ‘exciting joint new scheme’ involving both the Almshouse and Sherborne Abbey it has been officially announced today (July 29, 2024).
The Almshouse will retain space for affordable accommodation while the Abbey will use downstairs for a tearoom and have rooms upstairs for a young peoples’ centre and community group meetings.
The Rector of Sherborne Abbey, Reverend Martin Lee said: “This is such an exciting opportunity for all of us, offering both accommodation for those who need it, and support for important community projects.
“We will need help to realise our vision and will be looking to raise funds. The town has always been very supportive of the Almshouse in the past and we are sure that will be the case again as we move forwards together.”
The Almshouse Trustees carefully considered a range of options before choosing this path, which they feel is both positive for the town and financially viable.
Richard Hunt, Chair of St Johns’ Almshouse Trustees, added: “It has been a complicated process to get here but this exciting joint new scheme has several benefits, not just in providing accommodation to people who need it, but also in offering a home for the Abbey’s community outreach work and enabling greater public access to our wonderful building.
“This is an excellent opportunity for Sherborne. The need to provide accommodation for local people in financial need remains pressing. This joint approach will enable us to provide new accommodation for local people of all ages to live independently in the heart of our town.”
A public meeting for Sherborne residents and all interested parties, to find out more and share their views, will take place at the Almshouse and details for this event will be announced as soon as possible.
For further details, please visit www.stjohnshouse.org.
