Sandfield House demolition 7th November 2024

Demolition of Former Mental Health Centre Marks New Chapter for Ashby Community
The long-anticipated demolition of Sandfield House, a former mental health centre located on Ashby High Street, has officially commenced, paving the way for a potential rejuvenation of the long-neglected site. Closed in 2018 amid significant community protest, the building has stood empty since then.
Sandfield House was operated by the Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust (RDaSH) until its closure in 2018 after North Lincolnshire Council gave 4 month notice to quit in September 2017. The Council had cited the need to relocate mental health services to ensure better accessibility for patients. However, the pending closure led to an outcry from local residents, culminating in a protest on Ashby High Street on 9th September 2017. Many community members expressed concerns about the loss of vital mental health services, emphasizing the importance of accessible care in the region.
North Lincolnshire Council stated at the time it wanted to relocate the service to provide easier access for patients, and the Trust moved it back then to Market Hill, Scunthorpe.
Following the closure, the site remained derelict and largely unmaintained, with various proposals for redevelopment discussed but never followed through. In November 2020, plans emerged for the construction of up to 30 dwellings, including affordable housing on the Sandfield House site and the adjoining car park. However, these plans failed to materialize, leaving the building and surrounding area in a state of decline.
The site has been earmarked for future housing development.