Commonwealth _ St. Monica Trust, a prominent name in the world of retirement living and care services, has recently made a significant move in its ongoing development endeavors. The organization has chosen Red Construction to take on the responsibility of delivering a pivotal project: the construction of Block D, which comprises 44 extra-care apartments. This milestone marks a significant step in the charity’s extensive redevelopment initiative centered around the former Somerdale Factory in Keynsham, a project with a total investment of £60 million. Block D is an integral part of The Chocolate Quarter Retirement Village, an esteemed establishment that opened its doors in 2018, situated across from the Somerdale Pavilion. This new structure is set to be a five-story building, designed to provide 44 independent living apartments. Notably, it is committed to achieving carbon net-zero operations, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and responsible development practices.
These 44 apartments represent a mix of one and two-bedroom units, with a particular focus on affordability. Eighteen of these apartments will be designated as affordable housing units, available to residents nominated by Bath and North East Somerset Council. This inclusion underscores St. Monica Trust’s commitment to providing accessible and reasonably priced housing solutions to the local community, mirroring the principles upheld in their other retirement village projects. The design of Block D encompasses a holistic approach, considering not only the living spaces but also the infrastructure and amenities. It caters to the needs and preferences of its residents, promoting a comfortable and well-rounded lifestyle. For instance, off-street parking facilities will be available for both cars and bicycles, recognizing the diverse transportation preferences of the residents.
Furthermore, the landscaping around Block D is carefully designed to offer a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment for pedestrians. The inclusion of green spaces and pedestrian pathways enhances the overall living experience, promoting a sense of community and well-being. Additionally, a new entrance to the Pavilion car park off Trajectus Way is part of the plan, simplifying access and improving the overall convenience for residents and visitors. St. Monica Trust’s Chief Executive, David Williams, has underlined the significance of Block D in the context of the organization’s broader mission. He emphasizes that this construction project not only signifies the completion of the Trust’s redevelopment of the former Somerdale Factory but also underscores the organization’s steadfast commitment to providing affordable housing to the local community. This commitment is not limited to this project alone but is a consistent theme across all their retirement village initiatives. This endeavor reflects the organization’s core values and vision, which prioritize the welfare and comfort of its residents. By ensuring that a portion of the new apartments are designated as affordable housing, St. Monica Trust is fostering a diverse and inclusive community where individuals from various backgrounds and circumstances can enjoy the benefits of retirement living.
The timing of this development project aligns with the ever-increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility in the construction industry. The commitment to operating at carbon net zero is a commendable step that contributes to the broader efforts aimed at mitigating climate change. By embracing sustainable construction practices and energy-efficient design, St. Monica Trust is setting an example for responsible development in the region. St. Monica Trust’s appointment of Red Construction for the development of Block D at The Chocolate Quarter Retirement Village represents a significant stride in the organization’s mission to provide high-quality retirement living solutions. This project embodies the core values of accessibility, sustainability, and community-centric living, ensuring that residents have access to affordable and environmentally responsible accommodations.
