On Friday, September 10, Liberal Democrat councillors attended a ‘topping out’ ceremony for a new development structure set to provide new housing units and retail space in St Albans city centre.
Main contractor Morgan Sindall began work on the £60m development, situated next to the Alban Arena and including part of the former police station, earlier this year.
Altogether, there will be 93 new homes including 60 for sale at market price and 33 for social rent.
There will also be around 6,000 square metres of business space and 100 car parking spaces.
In keeping with the council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, the design is energy efficient and sustainable.
Council leader Chris White said: “The topping out ceremony was the point at which the structure had reached full height. From now on the walls and internal fittings will be completed over the next several months.
“The development will provide much-needed housing units as well as additional retail space – currently, nearly all retail space in the city centre is occupied as the area becomes yet more and more vibrant and attractive to shoppers.
“Last year, the Lib Dem administration ran a major public consultation, which canvassed residents’ opinion on three different designs. As a result, we now have a building worthy of St Albans and its people.”
Jacqui Taylor, councillor for St Peter’s ward and chair of the council’s housing and inclusion committee, added: “It is a milestone occasion for the regeneration of the city of St Albans and I’m proud to see this happening during my time on the council.”
Picture credit Jacqui Taylor
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