September 11, 2018
[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”off” specialty=”off”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”3_4″][et_pb_post_title _builder_version=”3.12.1″ comments=”off” featured_image=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.12.1″ src=”https://www.palmercapital.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cubex-logo-1.png” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]
An abandoned piano, a shopping trolley and a collapsed roof are all that is left of a former squat in Bedminster that will become apartments for homeless people.
Work is set to start on renovating three units in Bedminster Parade, which are currently boarded up.
Called East Street Mews, it will create 11 new apartments for young homeless people.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_post_title admin_label=”Featured Image” _builder_version=”3.12.1″ title=”off” meta=”off” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.15″]
Headed up by Finzels Reach developers Cubex, the conversion will see various charities and businesses offering their expertise and time for free. Once completed, it will provide much-needed affordable housing in the city.
Work is set to start on the building, which has been empty for the past few years.
If successful, the first residents are expected in the apartments by next year. Rental levels for the apartments near Bedminster Roundabout will be tailored to how much each individual renter can pay, while the ground floor will reopen for retail space.
The project team will launch the construction phrase of the initiative today (Tuesday, September 11), and is asking for help with the upcoming work.
Who is doing this?
The scheme is the brainchild of Bristol-based property developer Cubex, together with charities LandAid and Developing Health and Independence (DHI).
The partnership said there was a “major gap in provision” for young homeless people who are not eligible for other forms of support.
Businesses, including contractor Willmott Dixon, will help to restore and convert the row of three properties in south Bristol.
Crucially, the companies who are involved are giving their time and expertise for free – they will not be charging for their conversion work.
The companies include Palmer Capital, the Bush Consultancy, GVA, JLL, Hydrock, Creation Design, Spirit PR, Carbon Consult, TFT, and Cook Brown Building Control.
The building is owned by Bristol City Council and managed by DHI for young people who are struggling to find a home.
Why are they doing this?
Young people in the UK are three times more likely to experience homelessness than the rest of the population.
Gavin Bridge, director of developers Cubex, said: “It is fantastic news that we have reached this important milestone at East Street Mews where we are all set to embark on the construction phase of the project, subject to planning approval.
“We believe that this affordable housing will make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable young people in the city who have been faced with homelessness.
“We have been overwhelmed by the incredible support we have received from businesses and organisations in the city, keen to help make this project a reality.
“However, we still need more support to make the vision a reality. We would love to hear from others who would like to lend their support and we encourage any organisations or individuals who are interested in getting involved to come along to our launch event to learn more.”
How can you help?
The team is keen to hear from those in the property and construction sector who can volunteer on-site skills, time and materials, and anyone who can provide items to help furnish the apartments.
The launch event took place on Tuesday, September 11, from 8am to 10am on the sixth floor of the new Aurora building on Finzels Reach.
Companies or individuals interested in getting involved in helping with East Street Mews can find out more on the project website www.eaststreetmews.co.uk or they can contact Eleanor Lynch at East Street Mews on eleanor@eaststreetmews.co.uk.
Author: Michael Yong
Link to article: https://bit.ly/2MknRXb
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]