Association grant funds new conservatories for two Gloucestershire almshouses
The village of Cranham, Gloucestershire, has two almshouses that were given to the village by local benefactor George Jones back in 1868 āto be occupied rent free by one widow and her family, or two widows without familiesā. These cottages eventually fell into disrepair but were renovated in the 1970s and are once again occupied. The qualification criteria have been broadened somewhat in line with modern times to people with a Cranham connection who are in need.
The one bedroom properties have limited floor area so the George Jones Trust explored ways of increasing liveable space. Initially an extension to the rear of each property was proposed, but after obtaining quotes from builders, the rising costs of building materials proved prohibitive. Plan B was to add a conservatory to each property which would increase the ground floor area and allow the residents to better enjoy a view of the garden.
Two quotes were received from local suppliers and C&L Windows & Conservatories, Gloucester was selected. From the start this company was really professional, easy to communicate with, and better still arranged for a local construction company to work with them on preparatory ground works, which made the project really straightforward from the point of view of the George Jones Trust.
The first stage of the project included the groundworks and moving oil lines as they impinged on the conservatory footprint.
The project was really quite straightforward and the whole installation from groundworks to completion was done and dusted within two weeks. Ā The quality of the work is impressive and the project was delivered on time and to budget. Weād like to recommend C&L Windows for the quality of their work, reliability and professionalism.
āThe new conservatory has been an absolutely fantastic addition to the house. It provides an area that can be used all year long regardless of the weather. It brings the garden in and provides a peaceful space in nature in which to sit and read, or just watch the birds. I have found the space very calming since it has been installed. For me, with my Lupus, it has enabled me to get the sense that I am outside, without exposing myself to the sunās rays which would make me unwell, so I am extremely grateful for this. It also provides me with additional space to entertain guests and can even have people around for a meal now with the fold away table I plan to get. I cannot believe how lucky I am to live in the almshouse and the conservatory has quite simply been the icing on the cake. Thank you so much.ā
Resident Nic Granger
Weāre really grateful to The Almshouse Association for their grant of Ā£25,000 which contributed about 50% of the total cost involved. Our coffers are quite low as weāre about to embark upon a project to install solar panels and energy storage at the properties, which will use much of our funds, so the assistance of The Almshouse Association in contributing towards the conservatories is invaluable. The conservatories have really enhanced the wellbeing of our residents.
Can you help us build more almshouses and ensure those we have are the best they can be by making a donation to The Almshouse Association or leaving a gift in your Will?
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