Community spirit in action with a garden tidy up at Chapter House
In an uplifting display of community collaboration, staff from Morro, a supply chain partner of GSA, recently spent a day at Chapter House assisting with a garden tidy-up. The team dedicated their time and resources to build planters for the scheme, all part of their social value commitments related to our Swan Lane development in West Bromwich.
The garden transformation marks the beginning of a larger project set to continue in the spring. Morro plans to return with topsoil and vegetables for a larger planter, fulfilling a special request from the residents of Chapter House. This initiative aligns with Morro's commitment to giving back to the community while working on our Swan Lane housing development.
Sian Every, our Community Investment and Social Lead, highlighted the significance of such collaborations, saying: “It’s wonderful to see how partnerships like these can make a real difference. The residents at Chapter House will benefit from these changes for years to come, thanks to the commitment and hard work of teams like Morro.”
Our Project Manager, Mary Doria, who oversees this contract expressed her excitement about the initiative, stating: “We’re thrilled to see the first phase of the garden project come to life. It's been fantastic to work with Morro on this, and we look forward to their return in the spring to complete the next stage.”
The efforts at Chapter House are part of a broader initiative by GSA, linked to the Swan Lane development where Morro Partnerships is constructing 147 homes for affordable and social rent. The site, a former gas works on Swan Lane, West Bromwich, will feature a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with two- and three-bedroom houses. Sustainability is at the core of the development, with plans to plant trees, install electric vehicle charging points, and create large open spaces, including a pond to support local wildlife.
The homes at Swan Lane are being built using prefabricated closed-panel timber frames from LoCaL Homes. This construction method not only supports sustainability goals but also ensures that the homes are built to high environmental standards.
Our Employment and Skills Coach, Mike Rogers, is another key figure in this project. Mike regularly visits Chapter House to support residents in developing skills that can lead to better employment opportunities. Speaking about his involvement, Mike said: “This project is not just about improving the garden, but about building community and giving residents opportunities to get involved. The skills and experiences they gain can have a positive impact on their lives beyond just the garden, benefitting our customers’ wellbeing and mental health.”
Our collaboration with Morro demonstrates the impact that thoughtful partnerships can have on both the community and the environment. As these projects move forward, the residents of Chapter House and future homeowners at Swan Lane can look forward to greener, more sustainable living spaces.