Step back in time to the Nottingham War Rooms, a former Cold War command centre designed to endure the unthinkable. Built in the 1950s to withstand all but a direct hit from a nuclear bomb, it has stood as a witness to our shared post-war history. Decommissioned in 1965, this Grade II listed building has remained relatively untouched, holding a glimpse into what life would have been like for those who would have worked and lived in the war rooms if the need arose. We've meticulously documented every artifact from the building and explored local archives with Cold War experts, ensuring that the legacy lives on for generations to come.
The Nottingham War Rooms boasts a Lamson Pneumatic Tube Exchange Messaging System – one of only two remaining in the UK. The first operating pneumatic tube system was launched in 1853 at the London Telegraph Office. In 1893, Philadelphia introduced the first pneumatic tube messaging systems for telegrams, mail, and small parcels, with Boston, Brooklyn, New York, Chicago, and St. Louis also adopting the system. By 1915, these six cities collectively had over 56 miles of pneumatic tubes operating beneath their streets. Following the Second World War, the use of pneumatic tubes became focussed on localised systems, like the Nottingham War Rooms, and they still enjoy vibrant use today with healthcare and financial and accounting systems relying on pneumatic tubes to safely and securely transport materials.
Pneumatic tube systems, also known as pneumatic transport systems, efficiently convey objects or documents over short distances through a network of tubes using compressed air. Employed in diverse settings such as banks, hospitals, retail stores, and offices, these systems comprise carriers, stations, diverters, and blowers.
The operation of pneumatic tube systems involves placing materials into carriers, inserting them into stations. The blower activates, creating pressure to propel the carrier through the system. In modern systems, computerised controls manage diverters, ensuring the carrier follows the correct path and arrives at the designated destination station. In the Nottingham War Rooms, all messages would have been manually relayed through a tube exchange system, still located inside the building today.
The Lamson Pneumatic Tube Exchange would have been used to carry important Government messages around the Nottingham War Rooms, quickly relaying important information around the building to reach the relevant individuals. It is one of only two surviving systems from this era, and the project team will be working hard to restore, at least in part, the system to working order.
Lamson Pneumatic Tube Messaging System
Hamilton Russell Harper were selected as the purchaser and delivery arm by Homes England for the prestigious Nottingham War Rooms project. Through a meticulous and structured tender process, Hamilton Russell Harper emerged as the ideal partner to bring this historic site to its full potential. Our selection was based on a comprehensive vision outlining how we intend to maximise the community benefits from the project.
acquiring and understanding the site
In our commitment to preserving Nottingham's rich history, extensive surveys have been conducted to comprehensively understand the condition of the Nottingham War Rooms. These surveys delved into the nature of historical artifacts within the building and sought the best methods to preserve them for future generations. Our dedicated team has worked diligently to determine the most effective approach for bringing the site into long-term, viable use, ensuring that this iconic building is not only preserved but also contributes positively to the community.
Hamilton Russell Harper understands the responsibility that comes with this project, and we are devoted to delivering exceptional results. Our focus on community benefits, preservation, and sustainable use underscores our dedication to making the Nottingham War Rooms project a success.
Hamilton Russell Harper will act as the master developer for the project. Our goal extends beyond constructing exceptional properties; we aim to contribute value to the communities we invest in, fostering growth and prosperity.
Recognising the historical significance of the Nottingham War Rooms, we have assembled a team of experts with diverse specialisations. From cold war history to the intricate Lamson Tube Exchange System, architecture, engineering, and construction, our collaborators bring a wealth of knowledge to fully realise the potential of this iconic building. This multifaceted approach ensures that every aspect of the project receives the attention and expertise it deserves.
We are proud to be partnering with Base 51, a charity dedicated to supporting 11-25 year olds in Nottingham. Once the new building is completed, Base 51 will be provided with an improved facility within it. This collaboration exemplifies our dedication to creating spaces that not only preserve history but also serve as valuable assets for the betterment of our communities. We look forward to the positive impact that our partnerships will have on the Nottingham War Rooms project and the people it aims to benefit.
our partners
The site currently languishes in a derelict and unused state, having been neglected for several decades. In its current form, it offers no discernible benefit to the local area. Our redevelopment project aims to transform this neglected space into a thriving hub that contributes positively to the community.
The overarching goal of this project is to preserve and enhance the cultural heritage of the Nottingham War Rooms building. By breathing new life into this historic site, we create an opportunity to educate and inspire residents about our shared local history. The redevelopment ensures that the cultural and historical significance of the building is not lost but instead becomes a focal point for learning and appreciation, preserving our heritage for future generations to enjoy.
The proposals will, however, go further than preserving and enhancing this historic building. There is a significant shortfall of suitable space for our charitable partner, Base 51, and for other local businesses in the area. The development of the Nottingham War Rooms site will provide much-needed spaces for these important amenities and foster an environment conducive to their growth and positive impact in the community.
By reimagining and revitalising the Nottingham War Rooms site, we aspire to turn a dormant space into a vibrant community asset.
the need for redevelopment
