SJMT is thrilled to announce that we have been granted planning permission to build our first Almshouses for young people since our founder built housing for older women and young girls in Station Road in Erdington in the 1850’s.
After a lengthy planning process, the Planning Committee took less than 10 minutes to give the plan their backing when it went in front of their latest planning committee meeting. The application was supported by long-serving SJMT Trustee and former SMBC Councillor Ken Meeson. Ken, who is now an Honorary Alderman of the borough, spoke at the meeting and said that “If it is successful we hope we will be able to replicate this across the county.”
The Almshouse building will be comprised of four apartments for young people who have experienced care (foster care or children’s homes). Young people who have lived in care are often the most disadvantaged and commonly live in poor accommodation. SJMT hopes that the young people we will support will also become part of our wider community. CEO David Healey said:
"We recognise the value of intergenerational connections and we know that our older residents have so many skills and support that they could offer young people, and that connection with young people will also enrich their lives. We hope that this project will facilitate this both formally and informally."
Opening the debate Councillor Bob Grinsell, chairman of the committee, said: “This is a good news story. “If you compare other applications of a similar nature this is by far the gold standard.”
We hope that the project will start and be completed in 2025.
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