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The Veterans Build Project
Part 2 - Llanelli, Wales
Helping Homeless Veterans UK is embarking on a transformative project in Llanelli. The ‘Veterans Build Project Part 2’ aims to convert a derelict former nightclub at 33-35 Murray Street into vital accommodation and support facilities for homeless veterans. This project embodies HHVUK's national strategy to combat veteran homelessness and exemplifies their commitment to providing comprehensive support.
The project will revitalise the neglected site, addressing issues of neglect and anti-social behaviour. The building will offer individual living units, providing veterans with dignity and independence. A dedicated space within the building will serve as a support hub, offering rehabilitation services, counselling, and job training.
Site Context and Proposed Use
The former nightclub at 33-35 Murray Street is a prominent, yet underutilised, site in Llanelli. Its prominent location and current state of disrepair make it a prime candidate for redevelopment. The proposed conversion aims to revitalise this site, creating much-needed accommodation and support services for homeless veterans.
The project will address a pressing need for specialised accommodation and support services for veterans in the area. The conversion will feature individual living units and a dedicated support hub offering rehabilitation services, counselling, and job training. This comprehensive approach will support veterans' transition back into civilian life and help them achieve their full potential.
The project also aims to improve the site's aesthetic and functional contribution to the area. The redevelopment will enhance the visual appeal of the building and reintegrate it into the streetscape, benefiting the entire community.
How the site looks today (exteriors)
Design Considerations
The internal layout of the former nightclub will be carefully reconfigured to optimise the available space while prioritising the specific needs of the veterans who will reside there. This means creating a comfortable and functional living environment that promotes well-being and recovery.
Each veteran will have their own private living unit, ensuring dignity and independence. These units will be designed to provide a sense of security and personal space, essential for those who may have experienced trauma or homelessness.
The building will also feature a dedicated support hub. This communal space will serve as an area for interaction, support activities, and socialising. It will play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community among the residents and facilitating peer support.
To further enhance the building's capacity, a second-floor rear extension will be added. This extension will provide additional accommodation and support facilities, ensuring that the project can assist as many veterans as possible.
The design of the extension will be sympathetic to the existing building, respecting its scale and architectural features. The external façade of the entire building will be restored to enhance its visual appeal and ensure it integrates seamlessly into the streetscape.
A remote bin and cycle store will be located in an adjacent vacant area across the road. This off-site facility will promote sustainable waste management practices and provide secure, accessible storage for bicycles, encouraging residents to adopt healthy and environmentally friendly modes of transport.
Ecological Enhancements
The Veterans Build Project Part 2 is committed to sustainability and incorporates several ecological enhancements.
A key feature is the installation of a sedum roof on the second-floor extension. Sedum roofs offer numerous environmental benefits, including:
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Insulation: Improved insulation, reducing energy consumption and costs.
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Biodiversity: Provides a habitat for pollinators and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity.
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Rainwater Management: Absorption of rainwater, reducing strain on drainage systems.
The redevelopment of this derelict site will also address issues of neglect and anti-social behaviour, contributing positively to the local environment and community. By transforming a neglected space into a vibrant and functional building, the project will improve the overall quality of the surrounding environment.
How it looks like inside today
Accessibility and Transport
The Murray Street site benefits from excellent public transport links, ensuring residents can easily access the wider Llanelli area and beyond. It is also conveniently located near local amenities, such as shops, healthcare facilities, and community centres, allowing residents to easily integrate into the community and access essential services.
The redevelopment project is designed to minimise disruption to the surrounding area. No new vehicular access points will be created, preserving the existing traffic flow and minimising any impact on neighbours.
The project is committed to providing accommodation that is accessible to all veterans, regardless of their physical abilities. The building will feature:
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Step-free entry: Ensuring easy access for those with mobility impairments.
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Internal lift: Providing access to all floors for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
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Compliance with regulations: The building will fully comply with current Building Regulations for accessible living spaces, ensuring that all veterans can live comfortably and independently.
Social and Economic Benefits
The ‘Veterans Build Project Part 2’ will deliver significant social and economic benefits to Llanelli and its residents.
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Support for Veterans:
The project will provide tailored accommodation and support services to aid the reintegration of homeless veterans into society. This includes:
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Safe and Stable Housing: A secure and supportive living environment where veterans can focus on rebuilding their lives.
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Personalised Support: Access to rehabilitation services, counselling, and job training to address individual needs and challenges.
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Community Integration: Opportunities to connect with other veterans and access local resources, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Support Hub:
The on-site rehabilitation centre will offer a range of programmes to support veterans' well-being and successful transition, such as:
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Mental Health Support: Addressing mental health challenges such as PTSD and depression, which are prevalent among homeless veterans.
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Skills Development: Providing training and education opportunities to enhance employability and self-sufficiency.
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Job Placement: Assisting veterans in finding meaningful employment and securing long-term financial stability.
Charitable Operations:
The project is an integral part of Helping Homeless Veterans UK's national strategy to eradicate homelessness among former service personnel. By providing a model for successful veteran housing and support, the project can inspire and inform similar initiatives across the country.
Community Enhancement:
The transformation of a neglected site into a positive asset for the community can have far-reaching benefits. These include:
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Reduced crime and anti-social behaviour: Creating a safer and more welcoming environment for all residents.
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Increased property values: Revitalising the neighbourhood and attracting further investment.
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Community pride: Providing a tangible example of community-led regeneration and support for vulnerable populations.
Economic Activity:
The project will generate economic activity and employment opportunities during both the construction and ongoing operational phases. This will boost the local economy and provide jobs for residents in the area.
Existing Layout (left) and Proposed Scheme (right). Click on the image for the full PDF drawings.
Conclusion
The conversion of 33-35 Murray Street into accommodation for homeless veterans is a project of great significance. It addresses a pressing need for tailored housing and support services while contributing to the revitalisation of Llanelli. This initiative aligns perfectly with Helping Homeless Veterans UK's mission to combat veteran homelessness nationwide.
By transforming a derelict space into a beacon of hope and recovery, the project embodies the spirit of community and compassion. It demonstrates the power of collective action to create positive change and improve the lives of those who have served our country.
We encourage you to join us on this journey. Your support can make a real difference in the lives of our veterans. Together, we can ensure that those who have bravely served our nation have access to the support and opportunities they deserve. Thank you.
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With a Big Thanks to..
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Architects
Project Lead & Main Contractors
Plumbing & Heating