On Friday Afternoon, Jack and the new West of England Metro Mayor Tim Bowles visited Buckingham House in Filton to have a tour of the refurbished living quarters as part of National Housing Association’s Starts at Home Day.
Over the past year Merlin have converted eight bedsits and the former warden’s flat into six, modern one-bedroom flats. Merlin have also completely revamped and redecorated the rest of the building, including the communal lounge where Jack and Tim joined residents for their weekly coffee morning.
After the visit, Jack said "It was great to visit Buckingham House and see Merlin’s investment in housing for our community. I particularly enjoyed meeting and talking to residents who welcomed us into their homes. One resident had been with the scheme for over 25 years and I enjoyed hearing her stories of friendships she had made with different neighbours over the years. I look forward to seeing the transformation of Merlin’s properties in Patchway over the next few months and visiting residents there when they move in"