The Orchard

The event marks the completion of 83 brand new supported homes for vulnerable young people in the city. The Orchard was developed as a partnership between Mercian Housing Association, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham YMCA and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The ceremony was officially opened by local MP and Shadow Communities & Local Government Minister, Jack Dromey. Following his speech Jack Dromey planted an apple and plum tree together with Laurice Ponting, managing director for Mercian Housing Association, and Alan Fraser, YMCA chief executive. During the event guests were invited to have a look around The Orchard’s communal areas. They also used the opportunity to hear from residents about the difference the scheme has made to their lives.

Jack Dromey MP said: “The Orchard is remarkable initiative, the best in Britain, that will offer hope to the young and homeless of Birmingham. Mercian and the YMCA are to be congratulated for their vision and determination to rebuild the sometimes shattered lives of those without a home.”

The self-contained flats were officially completed last year by Mercian and the first residents have now moved in. The new, modern homes are a starting point to get more young people, who have been homeless, back on their feet. Each resident has their own bathroom, shower, kitchen and living room and there are also communal areas, such as a lounge, garden and a large orangery. A training kitchen and office for the YMCA staff that are providing support for all residents, is also part of The Orchard.

Alan Fraser said: “Today is the culmination of seven years of hard work to make our dream of an inspirational living space for young people a reality. We couldn’t have done it without the help of Mercian and financial support from the City Council and Homes & Communities Agency and we’re really grateful to them for backing our ambitious plans.”

Laurice Ponting said: “I am very excited about today and it’s wonderful to see so many people could make it and celebrate this milestone together with us. The Orchard makes a real difference to people - it is a safe place for the young people to start rebuilding their lives. Thank you to all the partners who made The Orchard possible.”

The redevelopment of an existing YMCA site received £5.6m investment from the HCA and was developed by Zenith Development Partnership on behalf of Mercian.

Work is continuing on the next phase of The Orchard – training and meeting space to help residents of the scheme access employment and training opportunities – with work on the third and final phase, a community centre for the local community, due to start on site next year.

Note to Editors
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24/05/11 11:20