14 April 2015
Work is about to start on a project in Plymouth which allows ex-service personnel the opportunity to build their own homes.
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The scheme, known as the ‘Nelson Project’, will provide at least 12 homes for veterans together with training and skills to help them get back into work – the result of a new partnership between the Community Self Build Agency (CSBA), DCH and Plymouth City Council.
The CSBA will coordinate the skills, training, support and mentoring that those taking part will need. Whilst the external design of each home remains fixed, the ex-service personnel have a say on the internal layout, working alongside architects Form Design Group. Then, the veterans get to work alongside the contractor during the build phase, while studying for construction-related qualifications.
Local armed forces charities including Help for Heroes, The Hasler Company (Drake Barracks), SSAFA and Royal British Legion are being approached to help involve any vulnerable ex-service personnel in Plymouth who need housing and are interested in training and skills to build their own homes and gain future employment.
A similar project in Bristol – also masterminded by the CSBA – started last October.
Stella Clarke, CSBA Chair, said: “The aim of the project is to provide homes for veterans and also help overcome some of the barriers they may face when trying to access housing and employment, and make it easier for them to integrate back into the local community.”
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives, Housing and Community Safety for Plymouth City Council, added: “This is a fantastic project and we are delighted that Plymouth has been chosen to take part. We have such strong military links in the city as well as a need for more affordable housing, and this scheme helps address both needs.
“By working and becoming involved on this project along with local builders and educators, people will be able to improve their prospects and quality of life and obtain a new home.”
The project, which is due to be completed by April 2016, is one of a number of self/custom build projects recently revealed by Plymouth City Council.
