Client
First Choice Housing Association
Location
Gorseinon, Swansea
Value
Undisclosed
Date Completed
Planning Approved June 2021
Development Overview
This development of semi-independent homes has been developed in partnership with First Choice Housing Association and Swansea Council. The site currently houses a former factory on the edge of the town of Gorseinon, and is not without its challenges due to the positioning of two mine shafts which have to be avoided by the new development.
The proposals include a shared house to the east of the site, providing residential accommodation for four individuals with both learning and physical disabilities. Designed with spacious circulation spaces to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users, each resident has their own bedroom with access to an assisted bathroom / shower and an external patio space. A communal kitchen, dining and living area provides social amenity space for staff and tenants, with access out to an external terrace and garden area. A small area of first floor accommodation provides a staff overnight room / office with en-suite shower, a quiet room and additional storage space.
The building to the west of the site contains semi-independent living apartments for four residents. Each apartment has a living /dining space with a small kitchenette, bedroom and en-suite bath / shower room with access out to a small patio. A communal living / dining room and separate kitchen is also provided, as well as a staff overnight room and shower room. The building looks out over a planted courtyard and a private communal garden and seating terrace are also provided to the south. Both buildings are predominantly single storey, with just one element of storey to the shared house, which is in keeping with the surrounding residential area. A mix of render, brick and timber cladding is proposed, designed to create and uplifting but calm and welcoming environment for residents, staff and visitors. Simple pitched roofs with rooflights reflect the local context whilst helping to create light and airy internal spaces.
The new development maintains the existing access point into the site, leading to a car parking area with 12 spaces (including 6 disabled), as well as a flexible drop-off space. The car parking spaces will be used by residents, staff and visitors. The site is surrounded by established trees, the majority of which are due to be retained.
