The Rt Hon Pat McFadden, Labour MP for Wolverhampton South East, has opened Nightingale House, the new name for the former Royal Hospital.

The historic site, which had stood empty since its closure in 1997, has been revitalised as part of a wider area transformation made possible through the collaborative efforts of whg, City of Wolverhampton Council, Homes England, the West Midlands Combined Authority and developer Morro Partnerships.
 
Through careful restoration, the Grade 2 listed building has been transformed into 38 one- and two-bedroom apartments, available for affordable rent as part of a housing scheme for people over the age of 55.
 
The renovation maintains the building's architectural heritage, including three stained glass windows installed in the chapel in 1967. The building also features new modern eco-friendly amenities such as air source heat pumps for heating to reduce its carbon footprint and improve energy efficiency.
 
Earlier in the day, former hospital staff also gathered for a reunion event to share their memories of working life at the Royal Hospital. In addition, a blue plaque  sponsored by the Royal Hospital Nurses League, was unveiled. Sir Stephen Moss, who has dedicated 57 years to the NHS, unveiled the plaque to celebrate the legacy and care of Wolverhampton NHS staff.
 
Gary Fulford, Group Chief Executive, at whg, said: ““I want to thank Mr McFadden for marking this momentous occasion with us.
 
“The former Royal Hospital building has stood empty since 1997, however, its historical significance as a place for people, and a place of care, has been preserved through our innovative wellbeing scheme.
 
“This remarkable transformation has only been possible through the power of partnership with Nightingale House setting the standard for what is possible in the regeneration of historic buildings. Now, the site offers a supportive environment where residents can live independently while enjoying communal spaces that foster a sense of community.
 
“It’s been a pleasure welcoming everyone to the official opening of Nightingale House and celebrating the thriving community that has been established here.”
 
Matt Moore, CEO at Morro Partnerships added: “This project has been about so much more than just a regeneration; it's the start of a vibrant new community, contributing to the wider area and supporting the lives of local people, all of which is at the heart of Morro Partnerships.

"We are proud to have worked alongside whg, City of Wolverhampton Council, and Homes England to bring this vision to life, providing much-needed, high-quality homes for the over 55s in Wolverhampton.

"The excitement surrounding today's grand launch, coupled with the touching reunion of former hospital colleagues, truly highlights the importance of this site to the city. We are grateful to Mr McFadden for his support in marking this significant step forward."
 
Owned and managed by whg, Nightingale House is its seventh wellbeing scheme, offering affordable rental homes for people aged 55 and over.

The scheme has a dedicated wellbeing officer, meaning residents can maintain their independence and live in their own home, whilst knowing there is someone on hand if needed.
 
For more information about life at Nightingale House, please visit whg.uk.com.