Engineering consultancy Perega has successfully converted its former Epsom Road office into a modern nursery facility, which is due to open in September 2025.

The project began in November 2024 and required innovative structural solutions to adapt the historic load-bearing masonry building, which had undergone numerous alterations over the years.

A key aim of the scheme was to maximise the available space and significantly increase the nursery's capacity, while working to a tight schedule. Perega's early involvement and in-depth knowledge of the building helped streamline the design and construction process.

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Sustainability was also central to the project, with the decision to repurpose the existing structure reducing the environmental impact compared with a new-build development.

The nursery conversion was delivered in partnership with CBRE, acting as both principal contractor and project manager, ensuring smooth coordination throughout the build. The building has now been handed over for final fit-out ahead of its September opening.

Albert Nordholm, Principal Engineer at Perega and project lead, said: "This project presented unique challenges as we needed to create an open, child-friendly environment within the constraints of a historic structure. By removing internal walls and implementing careful structural solutions to maintain floor support and lateral stability, we've been able to maximise the available space while ensuring the building's integrity.

"As a parent in the local community, there's something particularly rewarding about transforming our former office into a space that will nurture the next generation."