Soho Thirteen: new loft-style flats in Broadwick Street - with 65 rental homes for West End key workers

Broadwick Street in Soho has come a long way since 1854 when local physician John Snow traced the source of a cholera outbreak in slum dwellings to a communal water pump which had been installed above a cesspit.

His discovery led to fundamental change to the water and waste systems of London, transforming the city’s public hygiene.

A heritage plaque marks the spot, alongside a former police tenement block that has been redeveloped by Barratt into swish apartments — a modern example of Soho’s “sanitisation”.

The area is steadily jettisoning its sleazy sex club image, and designer flats are being squeezed into the maze of narrow streets and alleyways.

Barratt’s offering, Soho Thirteen, comprises 13 loft-style flats at the top of the building, with 65 rental homes below earmarked for West End key workers, including people employed in the theatre and entertainment industry, available through Dolphin Square Foundation.

The Barratt apartments are aimed at wealthy locals willing to spend big money on 1,800sq ft homes with slick interiors, terraces and an impressive bright atrium foyer with limestone floors and artworks.

Prices from £2.25 million. Call 0844 811 4334 for further details.