16 April 2015
Work has started to develop a series of custom build homes on the site of a former school in Bristol.
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The Bristol Community Land Trust (BCLT) has recruited a group of people to help build six three-bedroom houses for shared ownership and affordable rent on the old Eastville Park School site (pictured). A further six duplex studio apartments are being created within the redundant school building.
The homes – designed by Stride Treglown and constructed by Jones Building Group (JBG) – will see members of the 325 Fishponds Road Development Group help the build process by using a ‘self finish’ model. The residents-to-be, some of whom were involved in the initial design stages of the project, will help complete the internal works; fitting out kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and decoration.
JBG is also working with BCLT to deliver a training package for the ‘self finishers’ offering them the opportunity to work on similar JBG projects across Bristol.
Anna Maloney, BCLT Development Officer, said: “It’s been a real learning curve for us but the board are delighted now that this project is underway. We’ve got a fantastically responsive contractor and a selection of people who are really excited, not only about working on their own homes and customising them internally, but also working together as a group in sharing skills and capacity.”
The 52-week build programme is scheduled for completion by March 2016.
Serviced plots earmarked for further site nearby
Meanwhile, BCLT has earmarked a scheme of six serviced plots available for self build homes on a site off Shaldon Road in nearby Lockleaze.
The site is currently owned by Bristol City Council and has been vacant since its last use as a local allotment ceased several decades ago. However, council officers have identified the site as having potential for “an exemplary sustainable custom build market and affordable self build housing scheme”.
Discussions are now at an advanced stage concerning the transfer of the freehold of the site to either BCLT or its partner, Bristol-based housing association United Communities. Architype has been appointed as an architect and BCLT is currently working with a steering group to look at design codes and how the plots might be allocated. A workshop is planned next month to gauge public reaction to whether the scheme might also be a suitable model for a supported community self build group.
A planning application is being readied for submission in the autumn, with work on the plots starting in Spring 2016 and completing in late 2017.
