A traditional ‘Ground Breaking’ ceremony took place during October for the Phase 2 College Road development, adjacent to Llys Glyncoed in Ebbw Vale. Representatives from Blaenau Gwent Council, Morganstone Ltd (Construction Contractor) and Linc-Cymru (Linc) placed the first spades into the land on which homes for over 55’s will be built.
The concept is to provide accommodation which complements the existing Extra Care scheme as ‘Phase 2’ will be closely associated with Llys Glyncoed. This will help create a stronger community which seeks to support social interaction between residents across the site.
The development site situated next to Llys Glyncoed consists of 33 homes comprising 6 one bed bungalows and 27 one bed apartments for the over 55 year olds. A communal garden and parking area will also be part of the overall plans.
Keri Harding-Jones, Project Manager for Linc Cymru says:
“Linc are delighted to bring forward this over 55s scheme in partnership with Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and Welsh Government. We are committed to developing in the Borough and are currently also building new homes at Gwaun Helyg in Ebbw Vale.”
There is currently a shortage of bungalows within the Borough, mainly due to the high construction costs associated (in comparison to flats and houses) and their low density use of land. Linc have proven there is a strong need for additional bungalows to be built and are committed to meeting the needs of all user groups. The scheme therefore incorporates six bungalows which will help to meet demand.
Morganstone Ltd is the principle contractor for the project and Stuart Davies, Building Development Director, from Morganstone Ltd said:
“I am very excited about working with Linc and Blaenau Gwent Council to bring forward such an important scheme for the local community of Ebbw Vale, the assisted living scheme is a further continuation of a strong relationship held between Morganstone Ltd and Linc.”
The ‘Ground Breaking’ event on October 5th officially marked the commencement for the construction of the independent living complex and work is now underway on site.
Councillor Clive Meredith, of Blaenau Gwent Council added:
“This event highlights the collaborative effort that has taken place so that ground work can now begin. I am delighted to gather together with our close partners MorganStone Ltd and Linc-Cymru to mark this occasion, in the knowledge that this project will deliver much needed accommodation within Blaenau Gwent.”