Work is set to start on site late next month on The Sick Children's Trust's second 'Home from Home' in Sheffield, and BAFTA award winner and local lad Dominic West stopped by the property to see how the project was starting to shape up.

Work is set to start on site for The Sick Children's Trust's second ‘Home from Home' in Sheffield, and BAFTA award winner and local lad Dominic West stopped by the property to see how the project was starting to shape up.

The charity is building an 11-bedroom house in the city to provide accommodation to the families of sick children being treated at Sheffield Children's Hospital.

Grindleford-born West said: "I launched the appeal in March last year so I was delighted to visit the house and see how things have been progressing - it's exciting to think that this time next month work will be underway! I've been based in Sheffield for the last six weeks now to be part of the My Fair Lady Cast and being back on my home ground again has really made me realise how many amazing charity projects are happening in the area.

"The work that The Sick Children's Trust undertakes with their accommodation is a lifeline to the families of sick children and something that isn't given the priority it should be by the NHS. The hospital has a wonderful vision with their plans to modernise the city centre site but it's thanks to charities like The Sick Children's Trust which support it that mean that family life can continue throughout the child's illness.

He continued: "It was great to get on site and meet Treetop House manager Ann and her team, and hear first hand about what is happening in Sheffield and just how essential this new house will be to families when it opens in summer. As a dad of four it's something that I am proud to lend my support to and I can't wait to come back to the region for the opening party!"

Simon Cowling, Managing Director of Beaumont & Cowling Chartered Architects, a Sheffield-based practice added: "This is an exciting stage of any project, seeing your plans come to fruition and work finally begin, but more so in this case knowing what a resource this will provide to families in need.

"The two Victorian-style detached properties have been combined to create a ‘Home from Home' facility which is ideally situated on Northumberland Road allowing direct access into the Sheffield Children's Hospital. This service will enable families to retain their independence whilst being able to stay close together in a restful, non-institutional environment.

"The properties will be taken back to their structural shell and completely refurbished. Consideration has been given to retaining many of the period features and characteristics which this style of building enjoys.

"The development features a double height contemporary glazed structure linking the two properties together creating a focal point for the new main entrance. A second glazed element provides a direct link into the hospital and maintains a high level of security."

He added: "Due to the sloping site, access-for-all is key to this scheme which is over three floors. The accommodation comprises a mixture of comfortable sleeping arrangements from one to three bedrooms with en suite and separate amenities, including a communal lounge, kitchen and dining spaces. Recreational facilities are also provided for infants and teenagers alike.

"We are working as part of a great team who include the Quantity Surveyors Auburn Ainsley, Structural Engineers Eastwood and Partners and Main Contractor T & C Williams. The project is due to commence February 2013 with completion August 2013."

Claudette Watson, chief executive of The Sick Children's Trust added: "We are delighted this project is finally underway and very excited to see what the next few months bring in the lead up to the opening of our ninth ‘Home from Home' in the UK."