A very constructive hour with Harry from the bathroom company I’m intending to use. We spent a long time discussing options for the downstairs – clearly, getting all three of toilet, basin and shower is going to be a squeeze, but he seems determined to make it possible. He’s happy about moving the doorway, and understands that I’d really rather not move the window. He’s in favour of a slightly larger shower – say 700mm. He can also do the electrics. Tiling and flooring to suit, and he can do electrics (light and pullcord switch, extract fan, mirror light).
Upstairs seems a lot more straight forward. He can do the removing of the flue, subject to Building Control confirmation that it’s OK. Should be straightforward, as the lower section in the kitchen has already been removed. So, low cast-iron bath under window, toilet next to it, shelf at tap end (where boiler was), small basin, and he will also do the cupboard building around the new hot water cylinder, allowing decent access. Tiling and flooring to suit.
It’s going to be pricey! However, it means that I can go for just a Velux-type loft conversion , which will be much cheaper, so overall probably a saving as long as it comes in under about £14,000 – ish.
Fingers crossed.