Mansion House in Penrith is set to add another chapter to its varied history, following the recent sale to local firm Atkinson Homes Ltd, who are now looking at options for the future of the grade II listed building.
Westmorland and Furness Council confirmed in March that Mansion House was surplus to requirements and had been prepared for sale as part of a wider project to rationalise council accommodation in Penrith, following the relocation of services and staff to Voreda House. Investment proposals for Penrith Town Hall are also progressing with options being considered at the council cabinet meeting in July.
Bidding for the property closed on 21 May and Mansion House can now look forward to a sustainable future, managed by local developers who understand the market and the surrounding area.
Cllr Andrew Jarvis, Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
"Mansion House has long been an important part of Penrith’s architectural heritage, so I am pleased to see it entering a new chapter. The sale to Atkinson Homes Ltd represents a positive outcome for the building and the town.
This decision reflects our commitment to making best use of council assets, ensuring that buildings no longer required for operational purposes can be utilised in a different way while also contributing financially to improvements elsewhere. It is encouraging that this historic building will now have a sustainable future."
Richard Thorburn, Head of Legal & Land at Atkinson Homes Ltd said:
“We are delighted to have acquired Mansion House and to be entrusted with the future of such a significant Grade II listed building in Penrith. Our focus will be on carefully exploring viable options that respect the building’s heritage while ensuring it can be brought back into sustainable use.”
“As a local developer, we understand how important Mansion House is to the town, and we look forward to bringing forward proposals that preserve its character and deliver long term benefits for Penrith. Potential options could include partnering with a local provider to deliver affordable housing, but building assessments will need to be carried out before any final plans can be shared publicly.”
The sale aligns with the council’s Strategic Asset Management Strategy, which sets out a long‑term approach to ensuring that the council’s estate is efficient, financially sustainable, and fit for purpose. As part of this strategy, assets that are no longer required for operational use are reviewed for disposal in accordance with the council’s Disposal Policy, which ensures that any sale is conducted transparently, delivers best value, and supports wider community and economic objectives.