A new supported living block as opened on the site of a former church on the border of Plungington and Ashton-on-Ribble.
St David’s Place provides 14 modern and accessible apartments and has been built by Reside With Progress (RWP) in partnership with Lancashire County Council.
It’s built on the site of tragedy when a major fire ripped through the former St David’s Church in October 2022 and the body of a homeless man, in his 30s, was found within the remains of the building.
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Plans for the demolition of the church were tabled in late 2021 and building works were completed in February this year.
Director of growth and partnerships at RWP, Nicola Byrne, said: “We are incredibly proud to see St David’s Place in Preston open its doors, offering high-quality, purpose-built homes where people with a learning disability and autistic people can live with greater independence, dignity, and choice. This scheme is now enabling a safe, supportive environment where individuals can thrive, build confidence, and feel part of a community.
“The scheme consists of modern private apartments with welcoming communal spaces. Our tenants can enjoy living in quality spaces that are adapted to their needs and make meaningful social connections.
“Importantly, this scheme also strengthens the wider local community. It reflects our commitment to inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute, participate, and feel valued. We look forward to seeing our tenants settle in, form connections, and make this a supportive place to call home.”
Cabinet member for adult social care county councillor Tom Pickup said: “It’s fantastic that people have now moved in here and call this development their home. “We work closely with our housing and care partners to provide high-quality homes that support people to live independently, be part of the local community and with the reassurance of staff being available 24/7.”
Work on the supported living scheme has been undertaken by Thornber and Walker Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Studio John Bridge Architects, Beech Jackson Partnerships, Whitefield and Brown Building Contractors, and Aegis and Reid Jones Partnerships.
