A transformative supported housing project that could help up to 1,000 people transition from homelessness into independent living has begun installation in Chelmsford. Allia Future Homes is supporting local charity CHESS Homeless on their Turning Point project from conception to the delivery of 24 high-quality homes where residents can rebuild their lives with dignity.
The £3 million project transforms a former motel site into 24 modern, sustainable homes where each resident will have their own front door key, many for the first time in years. The DuoHaus homes are being delivered and installed by main contractor Hill Group, alongside the site works. The development includes community spaces and workshop facilities to help residents rebuild their lives and move towards independence.
Rob Saggs, Chief Executive Officer of CHESS Homeless, said: “This development will be game-changing for Chelmsford and the level of support we can offer to local people moving on from homelessness. This will be a safe and secure environment, where our residents can rest, heal and move forward with purpose.”
The project has brought together local and national expertise, with Allia Future Homes providing specialist guidance throughout the development. Local companies have also shown extraordinary support, with many professional services offered pro-bono or at reduced fees to help make the project possible.
“Delivering a high-quality housing solution for some of the most vulnerable in society has been a strong motivating factor for everyone involved. From a blank canvas, through design, planning, procurement and construction, we will have completed the project within 18 months and this speed of delivery is a fantastic testament to all the members of the project team, doing an outstanding job and collaborating effectively toward the same, very worthwhile goal.” says Dan MacPherson, Executive Director of TSA Riley and Project Manager.
The development, partially funded through government support and Chelmsford City Council, is expected to complete by March 2025. CHESS is currently seeking to raise an additional £120,000 to install solar panels, which would make the site nearly energy self-sufficient and help keep costs low for residents. All donations, big or small, are welcomed to help reach this goal.
Organisations interested in collaborating on similar projects can learn more at alliaworkspace.co.uk/our-impact/future-homes.
