Cromer, Norfolk
Evelyn Simak, CC BY-SA 2.0
Unlisted, 1893, E. Boardman & Son
The former Fletcher Convalescent Home was commissioned in 1893, and was used for most of its life as place of convalescence for injured soldiers, particularly during the Boer War. It was named for the Norfolk printer, Benjamin Fletcher, who donated land and resources to facilitate the construction of the building, and was administered by the Governors of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, who considered Cromer the most appropriate place for the facility on account of the sea air.
The building is rendered almost entirely in redbrick and creates visual interest through its unusual application of vernacular and Gothic elements. Of particular note is the crenellated square tower projecting from the main spine of the building, which incorporates grotesques, traceried windows, and an elaborate typographic treatment in baked terracotta. It is significant as an example of a civic building designed by Edward Boardman, a well-known local name, who succeeded John Brown as the most successful and prolific Norfolk architect in the second half of the nineteenth century.
Absorbed into the National Health Service during the twentieth century, the building was converted into a geriatric unit and subsequently closed and sold for redevelopment. Planning permission for its conversion to housing has since been granted, but the requirement for some of the accommodation to be affordable housing has proved a sticking point, which has delayed work on the building for several years. It is unfortunate to think that the building is still deteriorating whilst negotiations take place, with its stained glass windows smashed and its interior exposed to the worst effects of the weather.
Status Update / March 2026
Since appearing on our list in 2008, the building has been the subject of a number of planning applications. One of these, in 2014, was successful, and the building was subsequently repaired and adapted for residential reuse. The new development, marketed as ‘Victoria Heights’, is comprised of apartments and holiday lets.