Former Harrogate jam factory transformed into new residential development

A century-old building in Harrogate has been transformed into a brand new collection of townhouses and apartments.

The former plumbing suppliers and home improvement specialists, Robert Fell and Sons in Starbeck, has been turned into a residential development named Fell Mews.

Fell Mews refers to the family firm, which first opened the doors to its store - on the back street between High Street and Avenue Terrace - more than 40 years ago.

The development used natural Starbeck stone, a material exclusive to the local area, in the creation of the six architect-designed new homes.

Just one of the properties - a two-bedroom townhouse - remains for sale through the Harrogate office of Linley & Simpson, with an asking price of £184,950.

The development marks the start of another new era for the site, which was first built almost 100 years ago as a nameplate and label factory.

Then followed a period as a cabinet makers, before in the 1940s Hills of Harrogate started producing jam and other preserves there amid strict wartime sugar rationing.

Another change of ownership and product came in 1957 when two Scottish gentlemen moved in and began to manufacture their model of window-mounted extractor fans.

Houston and Bramley Mechanical engineers took over the site for another short spell before the arrival of family firm Robert Fell in the early 1970s.

Anthony Metcalfe, senior branch Manager of Linley & Simpson in Harrogate, said: “Robert Fell and Sons prided itself as a home improvement centre. It supplied many thousands of homeowners across Harrogate and beyond with plumbing products for bathrooms, kitchens and elsewhere.

“So it is fitting legacy that the next chapter in its interesting history is hosting this modern collection of new-build homes. The interest in the development underlines Starbeck’s growing appeal as a place to live.”

Internally all the properties have been designed with natural light in mind. The only available townhouse benefits from an open-plan lounge and dining and kitchen area.

With handleless kitchens and coordinating worktops, appliances include fan-assisted electric oven, four burner gas hob, extractor hood, integrated fridge/freezer and dishwasher.

The bathrooms feature white sanitary ware with chrome fittings and a walk-in shower.

Floor coverings include laminate flooring to kitchen and living areas, and bathroom; whilst all other areas are carpeted. The property also benefits from the use of an enclosed bike/bin store with electric light.

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