Bath architecture and planning consultancy Nash Partnership is celebrating the completion of an affordable housing scheme in the heart of another Regency town – Cheltenham.
Nash led the masterplan for Cheltenham Borough Council to redevelop the St Paul’s district of the town, incorporating new and old accommodation with the aim of regenerating the area as a whole.
A steering group was formed at the outset with regular consultations taking place throughout the process to ensure community engagement and support. As a result, local people played a pivotal role in developing plans for the site and local children influenced the design of a central landscaped area that incorporates a play area at its heart and a focus for the regeneration scheme.
A high-quality neighbourhood development has been created incorporating various building types across 48 bespoke homes, all of which respond to SQD, HQI, Lifetime Homes, CSH 4 and carry solar panels. In addition improvements have been made to 93 existing homes including bay windows, entrances and front gardens.
Nash Partnership worked closely with Wates Living Space (contractors), Cheltenham Borough Homes and Cheltenham Borough Council in delivering this regeneration project which sets a precedent for affordable housing in the region.
Nash Partnership urban design director Amanda Taylor said: “This scheme is an important addition to Cheltenham and demonstrates how through effective community engagement and careful design, a site like St Paul’s can be regenerated for the good of both the local and wider community.
“It has been a challenging scheme and we are delighted that it is now complete with new residents moved in and existing occupiers enjoying the rejuvenated site. There are many lessons learnt that can now be applied to similar sites throughout the region and St Paul’s should be seen as an exemplary example of what is possible through careful consultation, design and insight.
Cheltenham Borough Homes chief executive Paul Stephenson added: “We’re delighted with the finished development which has regenerated and improved the St Paul’s community, offering high quality and attractive housing. This regeneration has had a big impact for residents and it was their vital input that shaped the final designs and created a community where people are proud to live in now and in the future.
