The complex was built between 1887 and 1889. It was designed by Charles H. Lancaster for the West Derby Union as a colony to provide accommodation for children from the West Derby Workhouse. There was originally a farm, but this is no longer present.[1] During the 21st century it is being converted by Urban Splash to provide housing and office accommodation.[2]
Layout and architecture
New Hall consists of a broad avenue lined with a row of two-storey brick houses (originally called "cottages"). At the entrance to the avenue is the former superintendent's house and a probationary ward. In the centre of the avenue towards the end is a square containing a hall, and surrounded by other buildings, including a swimming bath and service buildings.[1][2] The houses are identical, each having a gabled five-bay front, and an H-shaped plan. The hall is a large building in red brick with sandstone dressings, and has tall round-headed windows along the sides, and a balustradedparapet. The front facing Longmoor Lane has a portico with a pediment carried on Corinthianpilasters, above which is a clock tower.[1]
