Grade II-listed – 1889-90 – W.G. Habershon & J.F. Fawkner.
This purpose-built hospital, by W.G. Habershon and J.F. Fawkner, opened in 1889 and was one of the country’s most important gynaecological hospitals. In 1904 it became the Samaritan Free Hospital for Women, joining the National Health Service in 1948, before closing in 1997. Since then the Imperial College Healthcare Trust’s building has been unused and empty. Today it is a rare sight on Marylebone Road, dilapidated and derelict, with foliage recently removed from the red brick and terracotta. Situated in the Portman Estate conservation area, its prominent position just a few minutes-walk from Marylebone Station makes it ideal for reuse.
Griff said:‘Why have the owners of this large handsome property in prime central London let it sit empty and deteriorating for 23 years – through some of London’s biggest property booms? This valuable building could lend itself to office, hotel or residential use. Westminster Council must put pressure on the owner to carry out emergency repairs to prevent further harm. Surely someone will want to bring this prime central London listed building back to life.’