Official launch of new Meadow Flats development

The project will create twenty-six modern homes to replace the twenty flats which have stood overlooking Porthmeor beach since the 1950s, as well as a site for Tate St Ives to develop its complementary plans to extend and improve the gallery.

The event, organised by Penwith Housing Association (PHA), part of Devon & Cornwall Housing group, will officially launch the scheme. Invited guests include returning PHA residents; the Cornwall Council Chairman, Head of Housing, Corporate Director of Communities and Housing Enabling Team representatives; St Ives Town Mayor and councillors; representatives from the Tate St Ives; pupils from St IA Primary School in Carbis Bay and representatives from contractor Leadbitter Group, which is constructing the new homes.

The invited guests will participate in a sod cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. A reception will follow at the Tate Gallery.Local children who are creating posters around the theme of ‘What does St Ives mean to you?’ will also be meeting original residents who are returning to the new homes upon their completion.When complete, the posters will be displayed on the hoardings surrounding the construction site.

The homes under construction will replace the original flats, which were located in three separate two-storey blocks on a very steeply sloping site. Access was via layers of staircases and steps, providing significant challenges for older residents, even those without mobility difficulties.

The new development has been designed specifically for older people and includes a passenger lift, astair-lift, communal lounge facilities, thoughtfully designed layouts and features to assist with daily living. The homes will have under-floor heating provided by sustainable energy.

Since the demolition of the former flats, Leadbitter has been drilling into Blue Elvin rock in order to prepare for the foundations of the new development. They hope to start laying the foundations and begin building in earnest in the next three to four weeks.

Cornwall Council are providing funding, and the Homes and Communities Agency are investing £1.25 million in the scheme.PHA has worked closely with partners, including a resident advisory group, the Town Council and Cornwall Council members to design a scheme with enhanced facilities and features. It will meet identified local needs and will improve the quality of life for residents and the wider community in an area which is dominated by second homes.