Bristol City Council has approved plans to restore an empty property into much-needed affordable housing for young homeless people
The redevelopment of a dilapidated building on East Street in Bedminster is due to start imminently.
The East Street Mews initiative will create contemporary and affordable apartments for young homeless people in the city.
The project has been set up by a team of local businesses, charities and property experts – who want to help young people to re-build their lives.
The first residents are expected to be welcomed into East Street Mews in 2019 after extensive renovations are carried out. The restored property will also include space on the ground floor for local businesses or social enterprises.
Bristol-based property developer Cubex, property industry charity LandAid and local charity Developing Health & Independence (DHI) came together to plan the build.
Realising there was a major gap in provision for young homeless people who are not eligible for other forms of support, they decided to donate their time, investment and expertise to address the problem.
Together, the team has enlisted the support of other businesses in the property and construction supply chain, such as contractors Willmott Dixon and Lancer Scott – to help convert the empty properties in Bedminster into high quality housing.
John Boughton, deputy managing director at Willmott Dixon, said: “It is great to see the construction industry coming together to deliver this project and we encourage anyone interested to join us and help give something back to the city.”
Gavin Bridge, director of developers Cubex who are responsible for regenerating Bristol’s new quarter at Finzels Reach, said: “With planning permission now granted, we can now forge ahead with construction works, bringing us one step closer to providing vital affordable housing for young people in our city.
Planning consent was granted by Bristol City Council this week.
Paul Smith, councillor and cabinet member for housing at Bristol City Council, said: “Our big gap in housing for the homeless is ‘move on’ from the hostels. This amazing project fronted by Cubex, LandAid and many other partners meets that key need.”
To find out more about the project, visit the website www.eaststreetmews.co.uk.
