Work Begins On £2.3m St Margaret's Development

Controversial sheltered housing scheme set to open in 2012

Construction firm Mansell has won the £2.3 million contract to redevelop St Margaret’s House, Sutton Court Road, on behalf of the Shepherds Bush Housing Group.

The controversial development was given the go ahead at the end of last year despite strong local opposition over the scale of the plans and the intended new usage of the building.

In October 2010 Shepherds Bush Housing Group submitted a planning application to redevelop St Margaret’s House into supported housing scheme providing 26 self contained flats for young people.

“We have a strong local presence with a reputation for providing outstanding services," said Amanda Morrison, SBHG’s Director of housing services. "We recognise the importance of managing the impact on the surrounding neighbourhood. We always have provisions in all our tenancy agreements and licences that cover any anti social behaviour whether in our premises or the local area."

St Margaret’s House will be a supported housing scheme providing 26 self contained flats for young people, as requested by Hounslow Council.

The aim is to help young people prepare for independent living by offering them accommodation and professional support and guidance. Each young person will have their own flat but there will also be staff and facilities on site to provide them with training in practical skills, such as cooking and budgeting. SBHG will also offer them support and advice on getting into college, onto vocational courses, securing employment or signposting them to other specialist agencies.

Demolition work is due to begin this month, with construction starting in August and completing in 2012.

July 20, 2011