New Flats for Old in St Ives

The new block of 26 modern flats overlooking Porthmeor beach will provide more homes for the town. Designed specifically for the needs of older people, they will include improvements including a lift and stair lift, car parking and a communal lounge. They will also use sustainable forms of energy. The project will also create a site for Tate St Ives to develop its complementary plans to extend and improve the gallery.

“It is an exciting project,” commented Jennifer McLardy, a member of the Meadow Flats Advisory Group with several other residents. “We have been consulted about all aspects of the redevelopment and feel that PHA have taken on board our concerns and queries. Moving out of our homes has naturally been somewhat unsettling for some but we are looking forward with enthusiasm to the plans being made reality. We will have more space and homes well planned for the 21^st century.”

Andy Moore, PHA Chief Executive, said, “The scheme has been designed by local architects, Poynton, Bradbury Wynter Cole, and consultations with the public, St Ives Town Council, Cornwall Council, Tate St Ives and the Meadow Flats Advisory Group have been ongoing during the design and planning period. The scheme will be in partnership with Tate St Ives who are proposing a new gallery extension to sit on the area of land behind the new flats. This will allow Tate St Ives to run exhibitions continuously throughout the year without the need to close, providing a boost for visitors to the town and helping local businesses.”

There was early local controversy but planning permission was formally granted last year. Cornwall Council are providing funding and the Homes and Community Agency are investing £1.25 million in the scheme. Funding has also been agreed with the Low Carbon Buildings Programme to enable ground source heating to be installed.