Photographs show the inside of the £2.7m redevelopment of Charter House that has introduced affordable rent accommodation for rough sleepers.
Work has been completed at the third floor of One YMCA’s Charter House hostel to create 11 studio apartments as part of efforts to end homelessness in the town.
The project included a full strip out of the third floor, the removal of asbestos and installation of new mechanical, electrical and building services.
Willmott Dixon Interiors was contracted for the refurbishment and achieved a social return on investment of more than £125,000 through community-based initiatives.
Rooms are now painted with bright yellow and orange colours and has a modern feel to the people residing at the accommodation.
It is part of the redevelopment of three floors at Charter House to create 34 new rooms and other spaces to help rough sleepers rehabilitate.
READ ALSO: £4m investment will double temporary accommodation for rough sleepers
The decision meant that Watford Gymnastics Club was forced to relocate after previously operating at Charter House.
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When announcing the additional 34 new rooms last year, One YMCA said the best way to reduce homelessness in Watford is to create “more safe spaces” and a new programme of long-term support.
Graham Shaw, managing director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “Our team has successfully remodelled space within Charter House to deliver a safe and welcoming environment for rough sleepers.
“The building offers modern facilities that will support One YMCA in equipping people with the skills to come out of homelessness and unemployment.
“We’re incredibly proud to have provided careers advice and employment opportunities for local people during the life of the project, that will leave a lasting positive legacy.”
Mark Turner, chief operating officer of One YMCA, said: “What a project, what a construction partner and what an amazing outcome for some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community.
“All thanks to the amazing efforts, support and commitment of Willmott Dixon Interiors, the professional project team and all our local authority and third sector partners.
“Now we can do even more to change, and save, lives for those who need us most.”
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