SMITH AND SONS SECURE SALE OF EUROPA HOUSE TO JOHNSON FOUNDATION

In a deal managed by Smith and Sons, Wirral-based charity, ‘The Johnson Foundation’, has acquired Europa House in Wirral, with ambitious plans to transform the former office building, and create a university style residence for young care leavers.

The building on Conway Street in the centre of Birkenhead, has remained unoccupied for several years, and will now undergo a complete transformation and redevelopment programme to include 26 bedrooms, with multiple shared facilities and recreational space.

To be named, ‘Peter Johnson Halls’, in honour of the charity’s founder, the centre will offer a comfortable and secure home for vulnerable care leavers alongside educational, learning and training support, as well as essential pastoral care.

Peter Johnson Halls will also become a permanent home to the charity, who will establish offices in the ground floor space.

Kate Eugeni, Chair of The Johnson Foundation commented: “There is very little provision for young adults leaving the care system who can often feel completely isolated and overwhelmed when they leave the safety net of being a ‘looked after’ young person. Statistics show that a significant percentage of young men and women from this group can quite easily slip through the net, and simply aren’t able to identify and access opportunities that may be available to them. 

“This centre aims to not only offer a home, but ensures that these youngsters are able to develop essential life skills and successfully navigate their way into the adult world.”

Smith and Sons managed the sale of the building on behalf of the previous owner, and the Johnson Foundation has now begun work on the expansive six-month renovation project. Renowned architects, Falconer Chester Hall have managed the design and planning process and work is set to begin imminently.

Jason Wadeson, Partner at Smith and Sons said: “It’s fantastic to see Europa House move into the hands of an aspirational Wirral-based charity who will repurpose the building and create something very different to its former use. Commercial buildings across the country , such as this, are being redeveloped for alternative use as the traditional workplace and space takes on a very different identity.”

Kate added: “We’re incredibly excited to begin this project and now we have the keys to the building, we can begin to make our vision a reality. My father, Peter Johnson, was actually one of the first tenants of this building, and it’s wonderful to see the legacy he will have as we begin the next phase of this journey.”