NEW ECOFLATS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING IN HARPENDEN

Preparations are underway to construct 11 one-bedroom flats for people with a learning disability in Hertfordshire. The £1.6m development in Carlton Road, Harpenden, is being built by local company Jarvis Contracting. A pair of 1930s semi-detached houses will be demolished to make way for the striking contemporary building, which has been commissioned by Harpenden Mencap. It will incorporate environmentally friendly features, including photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting. 

The flats will be equipped so that each resident can be completely independent. Support to each tenant will be provided by visiting care staff. There will be an office, communal lounge and laundry for shared use. The flats will be ready for occupation in early 2012.

Steve Cook, Managing Director of Jarvis Contracting, said: “We are very pleased to have been awarded this prestigious contract. We’re looking forward to working closely with Harpenden Mencap and the residents to provide this much-needed facility. The flats will offer high-quality, spacious accommodation for adults of all ages, and sustainable energy features for low energy consumption.”

Patrick Fisher, a Harpenden Mencap Trustee, added: “Our current tenants are immensely excited at the prospect of having their own individual flats which will enable them to live near their friends. Harpenden Mencap Society has been searching for additional accommodation for many years so this will meet a long-felt need.”