A former hospital on Marylebone Road, currently lYING derelict dilapidated.
Grade II-listed, 1889-90, W.G. Habershon & J.F. Fawkner
This purpose-built hospital, designed by W.G. Habershon and J.F. Fawkner, and constructed between 1889 and 1890, cuts an impressive figure on Marylebone Road. The elevations are rendered in a loose interpretation of the Classical tradition, with a symmetrical front dressed with a giant pilaster order rendered and provided with segmental bows. And interestingly, a monochromatic material palette is used, consisting of terracotta and redbrick, making reference to mansion blocks in the surrounding streets. When it opened, it was one of most important gynaecological hospitals in England, operated by the well-respected Gynaepathic Institute, which was founded by Dr. William Jones on Manchester Square in 1847. It became the Samaritan Free Hospital for Women in 1904, and, after joining the National Health Service in 1947, its role in women’s health continued. The building is now largely disused, and though it is bound to attract speculative buyers given its prominent Prime Central London location, it has not been advertised on the open market since it closed in 1997. Its prominent position just in the Portman Estate conservation area makes its deteriorating condition concerning, as it poses a threat to the entire street scene; but it also suggests adaptive reuse is a feasible option.
Griff Rhys Jones, Victorian Society President, 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.’
Status Update / March 2026
In response to an information request from a local resident in 2022, City Hall confirmed that the building continues to operate in some capacity. A business case was being developed to turn the building to a new use, but this would be delivered in phases between 2025 and 2030. As of 2026, no planning application has been submitted, and the building remains on the Historic England heritage at risk register due to ‘slow decay’.