Queensgate Launch Event Tuesday 5 April 2011
Residents and invited guests gathered outside the Howarth Homes/McKenzie Smith Show Home at the Queensgate estate in Farnborough, Hampshire. The Mayor, Councillor Brian Parker, cut the ceremonial ribbon with the support of the Mayoress; along with Stephen Wicks, Chief Executive of Inland Homes; Qamer Yasin, Head of Environment, Health and Housing, Rushmoor Borough Council and Richard Hastilow, Chairman of the Radian Board.
Guests retired to the Holiday Inn for speeches, which throughout recognised the good working relationship that Inland Homes had with Rushmoor Council, together with the generous contribution that Inland had made to Radian to employ a part-time Community Development Officer.
Angela Sleet, Community Development Officer, had been tasked with working with all residents in the community that have already moved into the scheme to help them settle in. She already has many community projects lined up over the coming months, all designed to encourage interaction and encourage an affinity, as the community becomes more embedded.
“We’re working on several projects to ensure inclusion from all members of the community especially the youngsters. One of our main priorities, however, is establishing and training a Community Association to ensure residents will always be involved in the management of their community,” she said.
The site was originally used as a training and testing facility for technology that has developed the UK’s aeronautical and defence industries.
Richard Hastilow, Chair of Radian said: “Working successfully with Inland Homes and Rushmoor Borough Council, and with funding from Rushmoor and the Homes & Community Agency, Radian is once again developing a new community from the ground up.
“This brownfield site retains its historical integrity, and by installing a shared sense of belonging and responsibility, we are confident that Queensgate will be a community where families can flourish.”
After the ceremonial ribbon had been cut, the dignitaries left some of the staff, residents and children to enjoy the food and drink in the comfort of the Holiday Inn. The sweets proved especially popular!
