The Duke of Cornwall recently visited Nansledan to review the progress of the project, view the latest plans for Market Street and see the site where the Duchy of Cornwall’s first ever innovative housing project to help address homelessness will be built.
Announced earlier this year, the innovative housing project will be delivered alongside Cornish charity, St Petrocs, and will provide 24 beds within houses and apartments with wrap-around support for local people experiencing homelessness.
Prince William visited this site during a two-day visit to Nansledan, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, which also included a trip to Fistral Beach to see the work of local organisations promoting sea and beach safety.
During his visit to Nansledan Prince William met with the Duchy team, Henry Meacock, Chief Executive of St Petrocs, and Max Hedges, who has been supported by the Cornish homeless charity.
Speaking after he had met the Prince, Max told BBC Spotlight: “He was basically asking me about the impact that St Petrocs has had on me, as a resident of the supported houses, and I explained to him that words fail me about the support I’ve received.
“I’m so for these houses, and it’s going to give people like me opportunities to progress as I have, and somewhere to live as well.”
Construction is set to begin in September 2024 and the first homes are due for completion in autumn 2025. The innovation the Duchy has embedded into the design will mean that the homes will be built to high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability.
The first phase will focus on creating high quality temporary accommodation that feels like home with a clear pathway to a permanent home as accommodation becomes available. St Petrocs will also be helping residents harness the benefits of an active and growing community in Nansledan where training and employment pathways exist, alongside more permanent housing solutions.
Sam Kirkness, Nansledan Development Manager at the Duchy of Cornwall, was among the Duchy team who met the Prince and briefed him on the project. Sam said: “We were delighted to welcome His Royal Highness to Nansledan and to update him on progress. This is an exciting project that will help break the cycle of homelessness in the Newquay area and support people to rebuild their lives.”
The visit was also a great opportunity for the Duchy team to discuss other plans across Nansledan, from community space, to sports facilities to Market Street. Further updates will be provided by the Duchy at this year’s community engagement event, expected in the autumn.
