Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? £2800 community fund transforms Loretto tenants’ lives
Residents of Beardmore Street in Dalmuir, West Dunbartonshire, recently celebrated the opening of their revamped communal garden with a special open day, all thanks to their landlord, Loretto Housing Association.
The event, which showcased new seating, planters, and whirly gigs, was made possible by a £2800 investment from Loretto. This funding was allocated after Loretto initiated a ‘You Choose’ challenge, where tenants participated in a brief online survey to voice their opinions on what improvements they wanted for their block.
With over 60% of residents voting in favour of new seating, planters, and whirly gigs, the transformation of the communal garden was warmly welcomed by the community. Isabella Nutley, a 66-year-old tenant who has resided in the apartment block since its launch in 2019, expressed her satisfaction, saying, “The communal garden is really nice to look at. The new seats, plants, and whirly gigs have really made a big difference. It’s a great place to hold gatherings or meet-ups of the residents. It’s been a great idea.”
Notably, the Beardmore Street apartment block was officially opened in 2019 as part of Wheatley Group’s Livingwell service, designed to assist older tenants aged 55 and above in living independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
Laura Henderson, the managing director of Loretto Housing Association, shared her excitement about supporting the Beardmore Street tenants through the You Choose challenge, emphasizing the benefits that the revamped communal garden would bring to the community. She stated, “Tenants will be able to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air and socialise with each other.”
Highlighting their commitment to improving living environments, Loretto invested £700,000 last year in enhancing homes and neighbourhoods across Scotland. This included £190,000 for new heating systems in 57 homes, £155,000 for new kitchens in 20 homes, £90,000 for common area upgrades in Maryhill and Tollcross, and £80,000 for new windows.
Additionally, the association undertook the construction of 24 new homes for social rent in Maddiston, Falkirk, while also initiating projects for 48 new homes in East Lane, Paisley, and 44 new homes in South Crosshill Road, Bishopbriggs.
