Construction has begun on First Base Day Centre, Brighton’s largest homelessness day centre as part of a £600,000 renovation led by Camillin Denny Architects.

In partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council the work is funded by the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) Places of Change Programme.

Run by homelessness charity Brighton Housing Trust (BHT), First Base is already used by up to 80 men and women each day. Led by Camillin Denny architects and Cheesmur Building Contractors the renovation will both restore the original 1766 interiors and provide up to date facilities to meet the needs of the local community, as well as those who already use the centre.

During the refurbishment First Base is operating from temporary premises providing services, support and advice.

The historic building on Montpelier Place which houses First Base dates back to 1766 when it was first used as the ballroom to the Castle Tavern and located on Castle Square. In the 1820s it was purchased by the Prince Regent and became the chapel of the Royal Pavilion and in the 1850s the building was moved brick by brick to its current location on Montpelier Place and named St Stephen’s Church. Based in the building since the 1980s, First Base is being renovated to improve its services which cover healthcare, work and learning, fitness, arts and community activities.

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Faced with increased demand for services BHT needs to make the very best use of the space and include contemporary facilities within this Grade II listed building. The charity appointed Camillin Denny Architects to lead the project because of the company’s specialist expertise in combining conservation with modern features.

The development will include a training kitchen to prepare nutritious meals, new toilet, shower and laundry facilities, offices, medical rooms and consultation rooms. The kitchen will also be used by BHT's catering business Dine which provides training and work experience to people who've experienced homelessness and long term unemployment. As a social enterprise all Dine’s profits are invested back into projects to support and empower vulnerable people.

Chloe Hobden of Camillin Denny Architects and the First Base Job Runner said: "Alterations to the building in both the 1970s and 80s compromised the original architecture and we will be restoring these features as well as incorporating the modern facilities BHT need. Soon First Base will be a fully functional new centre that combines the attributes of both the original Adams style interior with high quality contemporary features."

(CD/GK)