A support hub for the recently homeless in St Albans has officially reopened following an extensive refurbishment.
Martin House aims to provide a safe and caring environment for young people and adults who need a place to stay, as well as support and guidance to help them move into independent living.
The property, managed by Hightown Housing Association, was officially reopened at a ribbon cutting event with Mayor of St Albans, Cllr Anthony Rowlands and council housing lead Cllr Jacqui Taylor.
Following a joint investment from St Albans City and District Council and the government’s ‘levelling up’ fund, Martin House has been equipped with 16 modern studio flats, for both men and women, as well as serving as an access point for support, both financial and emotional.
The project also provides facilities that ensure that those awaiting supported homelessness accommodation are signposted to services that provide relevant support.
Cllr Taylor said: “It was fantastic to attend the eagerly awaited reopening of Martin House. Removing the shared facilities and providing self-contained studio flats is so important in providing a better quality and dignified standard of living. This has been a key project and is all part of the council’s plans to improve accommodation for those who have experienced homelessness.”
The leadership of Martin House had previously been criticised, with the site being blamed for antisocial behaviour in the past, but its reopening comes after extensive refurbishment and changes.
David Bogle, chief executive of Hightown, said: "I'm delighted to see residents move back into this much improved building. The refurbishment means this service can continue for years to come."
Jackie Albery, director of planning and resources for Hertfordshire County Council said: “Improving services by listening to residents is a key priority for the council.
"The re-design of Martin House has been shaped by people who need accommodation with support; having the health hub will enable people to access health and support services in the same place.
"The project is recognition of the strength and success of our partnerships, working together to achieve better housing, health and wellbeing outcomes for Hertfordshire residents experiencing homelessness.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here