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The GROW staff and crew welcomed a VIP to their new look site as they prepare to move back home.
The Bailiff was given a sneak preview of the entirety revamped facility at Les Coutanchez just weeks before GROW relocates back to their main site from the charity's temporary home near Oatlands.
The redevelopment work is nearly finished with a number of new facility's at GROW’s permanent site including a much larger greenhouse which will be used by the crew members for potting. It has accessible pathways throughout meaning visitors can walk around and see the crew's work.
Sir Richard McMahon was able to see this new structure, and the other improvements at Les Coutanchez, for himself when he accepted an invitation to tour the facility recently.
During his visit Sir Richard found lots to look at.
"I am hugely impressed with the new facility having seen the plans a few years ago as to what was envisaged," he said.
"When the redevelopment is complete, this remarkable facility will enrich the lives of all the Crew who will attend and benefit from the opportunities on offer. They are incredibly lucky. And everyone who has played a part in this, whether by providing funding, materials or time each deserve the community’s respect and gratitude."
Pictured: A new glasshouse will be one of the focal points at the new look CREW HQ.
GROW offers training opportunities to adults with learning disabilities.
This vital work will continue when GROW's staff and crew relocate back to Les Coutanchez with a workshop, arts & crafts area, canteen, recreation & fitness centre, and a retail training centre among the facilities.
There's also space on the first floor of the main building for other charities, particularly aimed at those also working within the disability sector.
Project Director, Angus Bodman said everything has been designed and built with that in mind.
"From the outset we were determined to offer first-class accessible office facilities for charities who work in the same sectors as GROW because we were conscious that quality, affordable premises with acceptable security of tenure were always difficult for third-sector organisations to locate."
The GROW operation will move back to the Coutanchez site next month and open to the public once the Crew and staff have settled in to the new facilities.
Pictured top (l-r): GROW General Manager Karen Blanchford, Crew Member Tom Lowe, The Bailiff Sir Richard McMahon, GROW Directors Marguerite Talmage and Angus Bodman.
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