Block D to complete Trust’s redevelopment of former Somerdale Factory

The building of Block D will mark the completion of the Bristol-based charity’s £60 million redevelopment of the former Somerdale Factory in Keynsham.

Built on the vacant land opposite the Somerdale Pavilion, Block D will be a 5-storey building offering 44 independent living apartments and operate at carbon net zero.

The 44 apartments will be a mix of one and two-beds, with 18 apartments being affordable housing units for residents nominated by Bath and North East Somerset Council.

The design includes off street parking for cars and bikes, a new landscaped area for pedestrians between Block D and the Somerdale Pavilion, plus a new entrance to the Pavilion car park off Trajectus Way.

Affordable housing

The ground breaking ceremony was attended by St Monica Trust’s Chief Executive, David Williams, and President of the Board of Trustees, Tim Ross, plus residents and staff from The Chocolate Quarter Retirement Village, which opened in 2018.

David Williams said: “The building of Block D not only marks the completion of the Trust’s redevelopment of the former Somerdale Factory, but it also fulfils our original commitment to provide affordable housing for the local community, as we do at all our other retirement villages.

“The Chocolate Quarter was the first retirement village in the UK with facilities and services that were open to all. The fact that we can now extend that offering to include affordable housing is a wonderful way to further serve the local community, which has always made us feel so welcome.”

Tim Ross said: “This exciting redevelopment of the former Somerdale Factory and the additional investment in Keynsham reflects our commitment to build communities where older people can flourish, alongside our promise to provide affordable housing.”

"Prestigious development"

RED Construction Group’s South West division have been appointed as the Trust’s preferred builders for the project with completion expected in September 2025.

RED Construction South West Managing Director, Derek Quinn, commented: "We are delighted to be working with the St Monica Trust to deliver the last phase of this prestigious development that is sewn into the fabric of Bristol’s history.

“Not only that, but providing much needed high-quality homes and care services to residents that require additional support. We are looking forward to delivering this community net zero carbon scheme and providing a lasting legacy for Keynsham, Bristol.”