Sussex school now listed at Grade II

In its listing report English Hertitage acknowledged that Wadhurst College, originally known as South Park, is a remarkably well-preserved example of a nineteenth century mansion. It was designed as a private home by Aldophus Croft, the architect behind the Grade II* listed Cavalry and Guards Club in London.

The house remained a private residence until the 1930s when it was taken over by Wadham College, an independent girls' school. It later became part of Bellerby's College, which closed the site down nearly 7 years ago. Since then nothing has happened, and the empty house remains at risk.

'It is fantastic news that Wadhurst College has been listed. The house is a wonderful example of an1880s Domestic Revival country house, which reflects the stylistic influences of the day,' said Heloise Brown, Conservation Adviser for the Victoria Society. 'Listing gives the property some protection from demolition or unsympathetic change. We hope that it will now be brought back into use.'

Friday 9 October, 2009