Refurbishment work completed on sheltered housing complex in Newport

MP Kemi Badenoch opens Reynolds Court in Newport. Picture: CONTRIBUTED (Image: Archant)

Reynolds Court, designed by Cambridge-based Saunders Boston Architects, was completed for Uttlesford District Council (UDC).

Darren Heffer, director of Saunders Boston Architects, said: “We are delighted to have been a part of this exciting project from inception to culmination. Uttlesford District Council is a fantastic client that shares our passion for providing stimulating, safe and secure accommodation to local elderly residents.”

The flagship building, officially opened by Kemi Badenoch MP on September 28, contains 42 self-contained one and two-bedroom apartments.

“The design not only focused on the apartments as individual units, but the social element of the building as a whole; there is a communal lounge, garden room, hairdressing salon and guest apartment, allowing the residents to become a community,” Mr Heffer said.

Reynolds Court, Newport. (Image: Archant)

The building received planning permission in 2015 with a grant of more than £900,000 from Homes England, and was built in two phases, during which residents of the existing building were able to stay on site for the 21-month build programme.

“The building has already been submitted for a number of awards; but, more importantly, is a win for residents, the local community and the sheltered housing scheme as whole,” Mr Heffer said.

Councillor Julie Redfern, cabinet member for housing at UDC, said she was delighted with what had been achieved since the decision was taken to redevelop the site.

“The old bedsit-style accommodation was not fit for purpose and was difficult to let,” Cllr Redfern said. “What we have created in its place is a healthy, beautiful and special place for our residents. It is an amazing building and proves that good design doesn’t have to cost any more than bad design, it just needs good management.

“This has been a collaborative project and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved, including our residents who have been at the heart of it all – their interests have been a real focus for the development.”