As redevelopment work at Grow’s permanent site in the Coutanchez nears completion the Bailiff, Sir Richard McMahon, accepted an invitation to tour the facility.
The Bailiff was able to see first hand what enhanced training opportunities will be offered to adults with learning disabilities.
While the ground floor of the facilities centre will primarily house the Grow operation incorporating a workshop, arts & crafts area, canteen and recreation & fitness centre as well as a retail training centre. Accommodation on the first floor is available for co-locating charities who work within the disability sector.
Project Director, Angus Bodman said: “From the outset we were determined to offer first-class accessible office facilities for charities who work in the same sectors as Grow because we were conscious that quality, affordable premises with acceptable security of tenure were always difficult for third-sector organisations to locate.”
During his visit Sir Richard said: “I am hugely impressed with the new facility having seen the plans a few years ago as to what was envisaged. When the redevelopment is complete, this remarkable facility will enrich the lives of all the Crew who will attend and benefit from the opportunities on offer. They are incredibly lucky. And everyone who has played a part in this, whether by providing funding, materials or time each deserve the community’s respect and gratitude.”
The Grow operation will move back to the Coutanchez site next month and open to the public once the Crew and staff have settled in to the new facilities.
Pictured: Grow general manager Karen Blanchford, Crew member Tom Lowe, The Bailiff Sir Richard McMahon, Grow directors Marguerite Talmage and Angus Bodman
