MP opens stunning development

9/11/2009

A new sheltered housing scheme at Alcombe near Minehead has been described as ‘stunning’.

The high praise for the Magna West Somerset (MWS) development came from local MP Ian Liddell-Grainger during the official opening of Alcombe Lodge.

The £800,000 scheme features 10 specially designed apartments along with communal facilities such as gardens, a patio area, lift, wheelchair access, scooter park and day room.

Mr Liddell-Grainger, who planted a tree to celebrate the opening, said: “This is a stunning development and I would like to congratulate Magna on all their hard work.

“It really is a first class facility and I am staggered by the quality of the finish of the apartments – in fact I’m even considering booking one of the rooms myself!

“I am proud to have been asked to plant this tree to celebrate the opening and long may she grow. I wish all Alcombe Lodge residents a happy future in their new homes."

Alcombe Lodge previously consisted of 18 cramped bedsit flats which were not considered to meet either the requirements or expectations of residents.

Aided by a grant of £100,00 from Somerset County Council’s Supporting People Team, MSW carried out the refurbishment programme using its own in-house Technical and Property Services trades staff.

The project has been resident-led throughout with MWS’s Tenant Design Panel having chosen everything from colour schemes to flooring.

MWS chairman Piers Feilden said: “Alcombe Lodge is a fabulous development, delivered on time and within budget by MWS.

“It really is a flagship scheme and one we can be very proud of. I would like to congratulate everyone who has worked so hard to make it possible.”

Among those moving into Alcombe Lodge is Patricia Garrett, whose home nearby was burgled four years ago.

The 89-year-old grandmother added: “I can’t wait to move in. After being burgled a few years ago I’ve never really felt safe but that will all change when I get to Alcombe Lodge.

“It’s a wonderful place and it will make such a difference to my life. I have nothing but good things to say about Magna and I can’t wait to get settled in.”