A groundbreaking ceremony in Gosport has marked the start of construction of new homes for Thongate Churcher Trust.
Vale Southern Construction is the main contractor for the development which comprises 30 warden-assisted flats for the over 50s.
As an almshouse, Thorngate Churcher Trust has been offering low-cost community housing for local people in housing need since 1868. Representatives from Thorngate were joined by local councillors, construction staff, funders and professional advisors involved in the project.
Vale Southern’s managing director, Oliver West, said: “This groundbreaking marks the start of a much-needed development, which we’re very proud to be delivering on behalf of Thorngate Churcher Trust. With spades now in the ground, we’re looking forward to getting the project underway and collaborating with Thorngate to create a high-quality development for assisted living.”
Speaking at the event Mark Hook, chair of the board of trustees for Thorngate Churcher Trust, paid tribute to everyone who had worked so hard to reach this point.
“Our responsibility as a social housing provider is to respond to the needs of our residents and that is a passion that drives not only the board but the whole team at Thorngate,” he said.
Thorngate currently has 124 sheltered flats for assisted living and Mark said the current waiting list is almost long enough to refill each of these homes.
“We are conscious that we can’t satisfy all the demand for specialist housing for older people looking for independent living with people-based support but what we are doing here is maximising the potential of this site,” he added.
“It has all the key features we know are most popular for our residents such as a multi-use space in the resident lounge, easy access for buggies and parking, and great transport connections. It is also a very green building with renewable energy.”
Funding for the new project has been made possible thanks to a grant from Homes England and support from Charity Bank.
Thorngate’s chief executive Anne Taylor said with work now underway the homes will be ready for occupation in 2025.