Charity One YMCA has appointed Kori Construction to develop a hostel comprising of 100 self-contained studios in Welwyn Garden City.

The £11 million project involves the demolition of the former Peartree Hostel on Peartree Lane and the construction on a new and secure facility of the same name, for people who face or have experienced homelessness.

Preparation work got underway on the site in September, with the development expected to take 18 months to complete.

As well as the self-contained studios, the development will also include

• Psychologically Informed Environments that enable the delivery of services in a way that takes into consideration the emotional and psychological needs of individuals.

• Interconnected glazing and green space to provide the natural light and greenery that are essential for a healthy living environment.

• ICT and catering training spaces to empower individuals to build brighter futures.

• Low Impact Environmental Design to maximise the sustainability of the hostel.


Jordan Connachie, managing director of Kori Construction, said winning the scheme would broaden the expertise of the company as it successfully navigates its way into the multi-room sector.

Kori Construction has an extensive track-record in the care sector, but delivering this development will open up further projects to the business including student accommodation, hotels, and hostels, Jordan said.

"As one of the UK's most experienced care home sector contractors, it is a natural step for us to move into the multi-room sector," he said.

"Our extensive experience in creating high quality care and later living accommodation for some of the UK’s best care operators has given our team a huge amount of transferable skills, which was recognised by One YMCA.

"This is an extremely worthwhile project and one we’re very excited to be a part of. Creating accommodation where people can get the care they so desperately need, plus support in getting to where they need to be, is a privilege because we know the building will make a difference to so many people's lives."

The original hostel is being demolished and redeveloped after extensive stock assessments into the asset condition and viability revealed the building was no longer economically viable to maintain.

However, with a growing 'homelessness crisis' in the UK, there is still very much a need for a One YMCA hostel in Welwyn Garden City, prompting the decision to redevelop the facility.

Guy Foxell, CEO of One YMCA, said: "This redevelopment marks a crucial step in our mission to positively impact the lives of individuals in our community. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and sustainable environment where people can belong, contribute and thrive, in body, mind and spirit."

One YMCA has partnered with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council to bring the scheme forward.