A stunning new estate in Essex replaces a historic children’s hospital, blending modern living with rich history.
Brentwood: This Essex town has a rich history. Once known for its hospital, it’s now a trendy spot. You might recognize it from TOWIE, right?
Highwood Hospital was a big deal back in the day. Built over a century ago, it treated kids with eye issues. The hospital opened in 1904 and had 204 patients.
Kids lived in cozy red brick cottages. Each home had ten children. But then, WWI hit, and the hospital was taken over by the War Office.
During WWII, it treated all sorts of cases. An emergency hospital popped up on-site in 1940. After the war, it became part of the NHS, focusing on TB treatment.
As medicine improved, fewer kids needed care. By 1959, the school closed, and the last patients moved to another hospital. The site shifted to geriatric care and outpatient services.
In 2004, the hospital was empty. With a new community hospital opening in 2008, Highwood Hospital was no longer needed. It finally closed in 2010.
Now, that historic site is home to beautiful new homes. It’s amazing how things change, isn’t it?
