Celebrations as Concord sheltered housing scheme gets a new lease of life on its 50th anniversary
Published: Thursday, 24 October, 2019
There were double celebrations as residents of Concord, Stroud District Council’s sheltered housing scheme in Nailsworth, celebrated the refurbishment of the scheme 50 years after it was first built.
And it’s no coincidence that this year marks 50 years since the maiden flight of the supersonic airline passenger of (almost) the same name.
The sheltered housing scheme was named as it was built in the same year as the aeroplane’s maiden voyage between Filton in Bristol, and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
Concord’s oldest resident who was its first scheme warden, Wyn Gardiner cut the ribbon at a ceremony attended by residents, councillors, members of the council’s project team, and contractors.
Stroud District Council has committed £8million in modernising and rebuilding its sheltered housing schemes to ensure they meet the needs of an ageing population.
After consultation with residents, the £500,000 refurbishment at Concord included installing a lift and 12 scooter stores, creating an open plan communal lounge and kitchen, refurbishing an enclosed patio area, and replacing fire doors and the fire alarm system.
Cllr Chas Townley, chair of Stroud District Council’s Housing Committee said:
“The high quality improvements undertaken at Concord will enable this scheme to support the residents and wider community as one of our independent living hubs. The hubs will enable residents to continue living in their own homes for longer.
It was also pleasing to hear residents’ compliments for the way the council and contractor had communicated with them as they carried out the work.”
The improvements were designed by Kendall Kingscott and carried out by Beard Construction.
Marc Bayley, director of Beard said:
“Concord is the second such project Beard has worked on for Stroud District Council, both of which have been very successful. During the refurbishment our team not only worked to provide modern facilities in the communal areas but also made it their business to work with the residents keeping them informed throughout the project.
“Communication was key and there was great respect, and camaraderie, on both sides. Knowing that one of its residents is also its former warden, fifty years ago, added something special to the project.
“I’m sure the residents will all enjoy the upgraded facilities which include the new well-being room and patio with benches donated by Beard. The team were also pleased to have run a raffle at the opening ceremony where some special hampers were won by lucky residents.”
Residents continued the anniversary celebration with a party for friends and families.